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| Definition of Acute Renal Failure
Definition of Acute Renal Failure
by Lysis
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Overview
Definition of Acute Renal Failure
Acute renal failure is characterized by the sudden loss of kidney function. The loss of kidney function destroys the body's ability to eliminate waste and absorb essential electrolytes. Acute renal failure is distinct from chronic kidney failure due to the quick inability of the nephrons to clean the blood. Acute failure can be from trauma, surgery or illness. If left untreated, severe disorders can occur including improper pH in the blood, electrolyte loss, coma and death.
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Side Effects
After the kidneys lose function, several side effects occur that require dialysis and quick intervention. Since the kidneys are unable to eliminate waste, creatinine and urea start to accumulate in the blood stream. Hyperkalemia can occur, which is the increased circulation of potassium. Increase water retention can lead to pulmonary edema, increased fluids in the lungs making it difficult for the patient to breathe. Other electrolyte imbalances also lead to acidosis; the disease can progress to heart failure and coma.
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Cardiovascular Disease
One cause of acute renal failure is high blood pressure or inadequate blood and oxygen supply to nephrons. Poor blood circulation accounts for approximately 50 to 80 percent of acute renal failure, and, in most cases, it is completely reversible. Patients who have cardiovascular disease with high blood pressure risk damage to the tissue in the kidneys.
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Infection
Many viruses and bacteria attack the kidneys, causing damage to the tissue. This cause is responsible for 10 to 40 percent of kidney failure cases. Most diseases that cause the failure involve the glomeruli, tubules or interstitium. An infection activates inflammation responses from the immune system leading to damaged tissue. There is a decrease in sodium absorption, so patients show signs of increased sodium output in their urine.
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Obstructions
Obstructions in the urinary tract account for 5 to 10 percent of acute renal failure cases. Obstructions may be objects such as a kidney stone or catheter. The blockage of the urinary tract creates more pressure and backup of urine into the kidneys, leading to possible infection. For renal failure, both ureters are blocked since one kidney can take over for another if only one ureter is involved. Bladder obstruction may also occur in the ducts that collect and excrete urine. Bladder obstruction is the common cause for complete cessation of urinary output for men.
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Symptoms
Initial symptoms of acute renal failure are weight gain from edema. The fluid retention is seen in the skin of the patient when pressure is placed on the legs or feet. As kidney failure continues, nitrogen wastes accumulate and increased symptoms of nausea, vomiting, weakness, confusion and coma occur. Pain in the chest area can also arise due to edema in the pericardial sac (tissue surrounding the heart) and the lungs.
