Ten tips for kidney biopsy in cancer patients
In brief
Ten practical tips help safely select cancer patients for kidney biopsy
This guide outlines ten evidence-based recommendations for choosing, preparing, and interpreting renal biopsies in oncology patients, where kidney dysfunction is common and often multifactorial. By emphasizing risk assessment, multidisciplinary coordination, and shared decision-making, the tips aim to balance diagnostic benefit against procedural harm, especially in high-risk or end-of-life scenarios.
- Journal
- Clinical kidney journal (Q1)
- Published
- 5 August 2026
- Study design
- Narrative review / expert opinion
- Evidence level
- Level 5, Expert Opinion (CEBM 5)
- Authors
- Mariadelina Simeoni, Mario Ollero, Clara Garcia-Carro, Corinne Bagnis, Andreas Kousios, Gerrit van den Berg, et al.
- PMID
- 42571592
- DOI
- 10.1093/ckj/sfag218
Why clinicians should know about it
- Picked for Pathology and Forensic Medicine (paper of the day, 10 August 2026).
Abstract
Renal biopsy is an essential diagnostic tool to be considered in cancer patients, a population in whom renal dysfunction is frequent, multifactorial, and clinically significant. Accurate identification of the underlying lesion is often crucial for guiding oncologic therapy, preventing further renal decline, and improving overall outcomes. However, performing a biopsy in this vulnerable patient group requires careful evaluation of procedural risks and clinical context. This '10 Tips' paper provides a practical framework to support clinicians in selecting appropriate candidates, preparing for the procedure, and interpreting histopathological findings. Special attention is given to high-risk and end-of-life scenarios, where the balance between diagnostic benefit and potential harm becomes particularly delicate. By integrating clinical, procedural, and ethical considerations, this paper aims to promote thoughtful, patient-centred approach to renal biopsy in the complex landscape of onconephrology. Shared decision-making and multidisciplinary collaboration among nephrologists, oncologists, haematologists, and pathologists are essential.
Abstract as published, via PubMed.
For healthcare professionals. The summary is generated by AI from the published abstract, and the evidence level is assigned automatically from the study design on the Oxford CEBM hierarchy. Neither is medical advice. Read the full paper before changing practice.