Acute renal failure, also called acute kidney failure, is a sudden loss of kidney function that results in an inability of the kidneys to filter wastes without losing electrolytes. This is a very serious condition that can lead to the need for kidney dialysis. Learning about acute renal failure can help people recognize their risk factors or identify symptoms that could lead to an early diagnosis.
Risk Factors
Several factors increase a person's risk of developing acute renal failure. Advanced age and chronic infection can increase the likelihood of developing this condition. Someone with diabetes, heart failure, hypertension, blood disorders, kidney disease, liver disease, bladder outlet obstruction, immune disorders or prostate gland enlargement is also at an increased risk for acute kidney failure.
Causes
Acute renal failure has several causes. Conditions that affect the kidneys, such as acute tubular nephrosis, interstitial nephritis and acute nephritic syndrome, can lead to this condition. If blood clots form within the blood vessels of the kidneys, blood flow to the kidneys is reduced and acute kidney failure can occur. This can be caused by malignant hypertension, scleroderma, hemolytic-uremic syndrome, idiopathic thrombocytopenic thrombotic purpura and reactions to blood transfusions. Decreased blood flow to the kidneys caused by burns, dehydration, injury, serious illness, surgery and septic shock can cause acute renal failure. Acute pyelonephritis, pregnancy complications, septicemia and some medications can also cause this condition.
Signs and Symptoms
Acute kidney failure can be accompanied by a number of signs and symptoms. They include easy bruising, bad breath odor, blood in the stool, decreased sensation, flank pain, fatigue, high blood pressure, persistent nausea or vomiting, prolonged bleeding, nosebleeds, persistent hiccups, slowed movements, seizures, fluid retention, hand tremors, decreased appetite, changes in mental status, decreased urine production, inability to urinate or excessive urination during the night.
Diagnosis
Several laboratory tests and imaging studies can be done to diagnose acute renal failure. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine and serum potassium blood tests can be done to detect a decline in kidney damage. Blood urea nitrogen and creatinine should be removed from the blood if kidney function is normal. When kidney function declines, these wastes build up and blood tests will show abnormally high levels of these waste products. Urine testing may be done to detect high levels of microalbumin or protein in the urine, which can indicate kidney damage. Renal ultrasound, abdominal CT scan, abdominal x-ray or abdominal MRI can be done to detect urinary tract blockages or other conditions that cause acute renal failure.
Treatment
Treatment for acute renal failure involves preventing the buildup of waste products in the body while the kidneys heal. Special diets that are low in protein, potassium and sodium and high in carbohydrates may be used. If fluid retention persists, diuretics may be used to eliminate excess fluid from the body. Increased blood potassium levels can be prevented with glucose, calcium or potassium given intravenously. Dialysis may be used to filter the blood so that waste products cannot build up and cause life-threatening medical conditions.
