Renal biopsy: indications and complications in pregnancy

A series of 111 renal biopsies performed in 104 pregnant women during the past 20 years at The Royal Melbourne Hospital and Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne were reviewed. The indications for biopsy and the histological findings are detailed. The complication rate was very low (4.5%). It is concluded that the procedure is safe and that renal biopsy during pregnancy yields a definitive histological diagnosis in almost all cases. The indications for renal biopsy in pregnancy are discussed.