Overview of Acute renal failure
Acute renal failure (ARF) refers to the rapid decrease (within a few days to weeks) in the functioning of the kidneys resulting in an inability to clear nitrogenous wastes, concentrate urine, conserve electrolytes and maintain fluid balance in the body. This leads to accumulation of these waste products in the body, which may secondarily affect the normal functioning of the body. Acute renal failure may be caused due to various factors that may affect the normal functioning of the kidneys at various levels such as entry, within the kidneys or at the exit. Acute renal failure is noticed in about 1–5% of patients admitted to the hospital and in about 15–20% of patients admitted in intensive care units (ICUs). It may be mortal if left untreated.
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Causes for Acute renal failure
As mentioned before the cause of Acute renal failure (ARF) can be categorized with respect to different levels as follows (see Figure 1):
- Within the kidneys (renal)
- Factors outside the kidneys (pre-renal)
- At the point of exit of the urine (post-renal)
Signs and Symptoms of Acute renal failure
A wide array of signs and symptoms may be noticed based on the causative factors, which are responsible for Acute renal failure Acute renal failure (ARF). Some of these features may also be helpful in pointing out the underlying
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Signs of Acute renal failure...
Diagnosis of Acute renal failure
The diagnosis of the cause of Acute renal failure (ARF) is based on the comprehensive review of the history of the condition, the signs and symptoms observed, physical examination and specific investigations. A history of burns
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Diagnosis of Acute renal failure...
Treatment of Acute renal failure
The main aims of the treatment are to prevent death, remove the cause of renal failure and to prevent permanent damage to the kidneys.
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Complications of Acute renal failure
The most severe complication in cases of Acute renal failure (ARF) is death. If left untreated, Acute renal failure (ARF) can progress to become a long-term disorder termed as chronic renal failure that may further be associated various other complications and permanent damage to the kidneys. Altered functioning of the heart and nervous systems are some of the other complications.
Prevention of Acute renal failure
Although Acute renal failure (ARF) cannot be prevented in many instances, proper management of cases involving burns and other causes of fluid loss can prevent the occurrence of Acute renal failure (ARF) in such individuals. Careful administration of drugs that are toxic to the kidneys can prevent kidney damage.
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Written by: Healthplus24 team
Date last updated: December 21, 2009