Can use of the serum anti-PLA2R antibody negate the need for a renal biopsy in primary membranous nephropathy?

Abstract

The anti-PLA2R antibody test is a highly specific test for diagnosing membranous nephropathy, and the test has the potential to allow for the diagnosis and treatment in up to 75% of PMN cases without the need for a renal biopsy. Nevertheless, patients with negative PLA2R-Ab tests will still require a biopsy to confirm their diagnosis.