Is a kidney biopsy always necessary for nephritis?

Nephritis does not necessarily require a biopsy, as the decision mainly depends on the patient's specific condition and clinical needs. Biopsy is an invasive diagnostic procedure that involves removing kidney tissue for pathological analysis to establish a definitive diagnosis and guide treatment. Whether a biopsy is needed must be evaluated by a physician based on the patient's individual circumstances. Generally, a kidney biopsy may be considered in the following situations: 1. When drug treatment is ineffective or the condition continues to worsen, a biopsy can provide a more accurate pathological diagnosis and serve as a basis for adjusting the treatment plan. 2. For certain acute or severe illnesses or hereditary diseases, early biopsy can help achieve a timely diagnosis and formulate an appropriate treatment plan. 3. In cases where the clinical diagnosis is unclear, such as in hypertensive kidney disease or diabetic nephropathy, a biopsy can provide more accurate kidney pathological information, assisting physicians in developing a more suitable treatment strategy.