Abstract

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.