Protocol biopsies in renal transplant patients are those that are obtained at preimplantation
and at predetermined times post-transplant, even in the absence of renal dysfunction. These biopsies
have been invaluable for the study of the “natural history” of allograft histopathology, and have indeed
revealed unexpected acute and chronic lesions in well-functioning grafts. Many centres, including ours,
are attempting to develop non-invasive biomarkers of early graft injury. However, it is our view that
until such tests have been developed and validated, the protocol biopsy will remain a useful tool for the
management of renal transplant patients.
Keywords: Renal Transplantation, Protocol Biopsies, Subclinical Acute, Chronic Pathology.
