In which one of the following conditions, is a renal biopsy contraindicated –
**Core Concept**
A renal biopsy involves inserting a needle into the kidney to collect a sample of kidney tissue for examination. This procedure is contraindicated in conditions where the risk of bleeding or complications outweighs the potential benefits.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is **C. Uncontrolled hypertension**. A renal biopsy is contraindicated in patients with uncontrolled hypertension because the procedure can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, leading to a hypertensive crisis. This is particularly concerning in patients with pre-existing hypertension, as it can cause renal ischemia, infarction, or even cardiac complications.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** **Glomerulonephritis** - While patients with glomerulonephritis may require a renal biopsy for diagnosis or to monitor disease progression, uncontrolled hypertension is not a contraindication for the procedure.
**Option B:** **Pregnancy** - Although pregnancy is a relative contraindication for renal biopsy, it is not the correct answer. The risk of bleeding and complications is higher in pregnant women, but the procedure is not absolutely contraindicated.
**Option D:** **Coagulopathy** - Coagulopathy is a relative contraindication for renal biopsy, as it increases the risk of bleeding. However, the correct answer is uncontrolled hypertension, not coagulopathy.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
When performing a renal biopsy, it is essential to ensure that the patient's blood pressure is well-controlled to minimize the risk of complications.
**Correct Answer:** C. Uncontrolled hypertension.