Kidney biopsy

[Socky]

Hi everyone,

I just had a kidney biopsy yesterday. I was scared and nervous in the weeks and days leading to my biopsy. I have CKD Stage 3, it’s a new diagnosis and I had the biopsy to try to find out what is causing my kidney failure. I Googled and u-tubed a lot, but only got more anxious. My biopsy went better than expected. I lied in my stomach and had a cat scan, that’s how the Dr. visualized my kidneys, then I was given some light sedation just before my biopsy began, followed by local anesthesia. I felt a little stinging, that was the most uncomfortable part for me, but it numbed quickly. I heard a few clicking sounds and the doctor took the samples. A pathologist was present to make sure they had enough tissue. Everything was over within 30 min. I was monitored for 5 hours after the biopsy to make sure I didn’t have bleeding and was able to go home after. Today I’m a bit sore, it feels like a muscle strain, nothing a little Tylenol can’t take care of. I’m so glad it’s over though. I hope this helps you. My advice to you, ask for slight sedation if possible, I was glad I had it (versed and fentanyl) and don’t worry. It sounds scary but it’s not as bad, you’ll do just fine. Best of luck!

[Marvin8]

So what did they find out?

[Socky in reply to Marvin8]

I went to see my Nephrologist today, he told me I have IGA nephropathy 😞. I went into my biopsy thinking I had stage 3 CKD, and today I found out that have Stage IV CKD. 😞

[Marvin8 in reply to Socky]

Am really sorry to hear that. What's the course of action and prognosis?

[Socky]

Results can take up to a week. I have an appointment coming up to see my nephrologist and I will know my results then.

[rabbit01]

Thanks for sharing your positive biopsy experience. I was due to have one a couple of years ago but as I was at late stage 4 with only 17% working kidney function I decided against it. At your stage it is worth it as they might be able to fix the underlying issue. Please let us know how you get on with your results. All the best.

[Bunkin]

Glad you came thru like a trooper😀😀😀

[Sdtagoo]

My nephrologist would not do a biopsy with my stage 3b. He said it was too risky because if something went wrong, I would have more damage to my kidneys. He said since my kidney function could not be "undone", the risk was too great. I had no apparent cause for my CKD other than mild high blood pressure.

[rabbit01 in reply to Sdtagoo]

This was the same situation I was in. Already at 17% when diagnosed and advised that damaged kidneys are more risky to have a biopsy on and I could end up on dialysis even sooner so I did not have one.

[Socky in reply to rabbit01]

Are you on dialysis now?

[rabbit01 in reply to Socky]

No. Currently going through all the dialysis training but not yet on it. EGFR is 12%. They reckon I can last out till the new year.

[Socky in reply to Sdtagoo]

My nephrologist wants to be aggressive because of my age. I’m 39 years old, he believes that if we find the cause I can start a treatment to stop or slow down the damage. I have no previous medical history, I have hypertension now, but he believes it’s caused by my kidney failure.

[rabbit01 in reply to Socky]

That is good that they are looking to try and slow it down or maybe even stop it progressing. Sounds like you have a good doctor. Keep us updated!

[Sdtagoo in reply to Socky]

That's good that he's being proactive