Definition, Classification, and Differentiation of Acute and Chronic Renal Failure

Renal failure, also known as kidney failure, is a condition in which the kidneys lose their ability to function effectively. It can be classified into acute and chronic renal failure based on the duration and severity of the condition.

Acute Renal Failure

Acute renal failure (ARF), also known as acute kidney injury (AKI), is a sudden decrease in kidney function that occurs within hours to days. It is often reversible with timely intervention.

Causes

• Prerenal causes: Decreased blood flow to the kidneys (e.g., dehydration, heart failure).
• Intrinsic causes: Damage to kidney tissue (e.g., infections, toxins, acute tubular necrosis).
• Postrenal causes: Obstruction of urinary outflow (e.g., kidney stones, tumors).

Management and Treatment Strategies

• Fluid and electrolyte balance correction.
• Identifying and addressing underlying causes.
• Renal replacement therapy in severe cases (dialysis).
• Monitoring of kidney function and urine output.

Chronic Renal Failure

Chronic renal failure (CRF), also known as chronic kidney disease (CKD), is a progressive decline in kidney function that occurs over months or years. Unlike ARF, CRF is often irreversible.

Causes

• Diabetes mellitus.
• Hypertension.
• Chronic glomerulonephritis.
• Polycystic kidney disease.

Management and Treatment Strategies

• Blood pressure and glucose control.
• Dietary modifications to reduce kidney workload.
• Medications to slow progression (e.g., ACE inhibitors).
• Dialysis or kidney transplantation in advanced stages.