A severe loss of kidney function in which the kidneys can no longer adequately remove waste, regulate fluids and electrolytes, or perform other essential functions.
The kidneys normally filter waste products from the blood, regulate water and electrolyte balance, help control blood pressure, and contribute to red blood cell production and bone health. Kidney failure can develop suddenly (acute kidney injury) or gradually as a consequence of chronic kidney disease. Depending on its severity and cause, treatment may involve medicines, fluid and electrolyte management, treatment of the underlying cause, dialysis, or kidney transplantation.
QUICK FACT
Kidney failure does not necessarily mean that the kidneys have stopped producing urine completely. A person can still produce urine despite severely impaired kidney function.
COMMONLY CONFUSED WITH
Kidney disease: a broader term covering conditions that damage or impair the kidneys; kidney failure refers to advanced loss of kidney function.
SEE ALSO
- Acute
- Chronic
- Electrolyte
- Dialysis