Acute renal failure is defined as a sudden inability of the kidneys to function. When this occurs, the kidneys are unable to remove salts, wastes and water from the bloodstream causing severe or life threatening medical consequences. The causes of acute renal failure in children are much different than the causes renal failure in adults. In adults, a chronic illness such as heart disease or diabetes can often lead to renal failure. In children, acute renal failure can be caused by several different factors such as congenital kidney defects or certain medications.
Prerenal Causes
Prerenal acute renal failure is defined as a problem with the blood flow into the kidneys. The kidneys will not function properly if they do not have sufficient blood flow entering them. The most common cause of this lack of blood volume in children is dehydration due to excessive vomiting and diarrhea. Another cause of prerenal acute renal failure in children is a congenital heart defect or heart failure in which the heart is incapable of sustaining adequate blood flow to the internal organs.
Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome
Hemolytic uremic syndrome is a rare disease that primarily affects children under the age of ten and leads to acute renal failure. This disease is caused by direct damage to the kidney. Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome occurs when a child eats food that is contaminated with bacteria. This bacteria releases poisons into the blood stream, thus causing damage to the kidneys. Hemolytic uremic syndrome may be difficult to diagnose, because it often begins as a stomach flu with the child suffering from vomiting and diarrhea. When these symptoms subside, the child still feels tired and may be pale in color. Children with this disease may require blood transfusions or even renal dialysis for a few weeks, however, children should return to normal after treatment without chronic kidney damage.
Nephrotic Syndrome
Nephrotic syndrome is a disease in which the kidneys are damaged and release large amounts of protein into the urine. Healthy kidneys keep proteins in the blood stream, but because the kidneys are damaged, the proteins leak into the urine. Nephrotic syndrome occurs most frequently in boys aged one to five. As of this point in time, there is no known cause for nephrotic syndrome. Children suffering from nephrotic syndrome will urinate less often and, because of water retention, will exhibit swelling around the eyes, legs and abdomen. Nephrotic syndrome is treated with steroids (prednisone) to help with protein leakage and with diuretics to promote urination and prevent water retention. Children should return to normal after treatment.
