RENAL FAILURE SIMPLIFIED

When the kidneys are no longer able to perform their normal

functions, renal failure occurs. This may be acute or chronic.
Hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis are both used to treat
this problem. Kidney transplantation is sometimes necessary.

Failure of the kidneys to do their normal function is very
distressing to the patient. Patients may become confused 
because of the retained waste products. Pruritis ( itching)
is also common. Urinary output in renal failure may be 
absent ( anuria) or low (oliguria).

Causes of renal failure

Hypovolemia - excessive volume depletion from vomiting ,
 diarrhea, blood loss or diuretics result in decreased blood
flow to the kidneys and are reversible by correction of the
problem.

Drug induced renal failure may or may not be reversible,
antibiotics, contrast material used in radiographic studies,
 anti- inflammatory drugs may all be causes of renal failure. 

Monitoring of lab values for certain drugs like Gentamicin
will be an indicator of when levels are becoming toxic.

 Dopamine infusion which is used to increase blood pressure,
 may result in decreased urinary output when used in high doses.
Certain vitamin supplements may cause kidney stones.

Trauma whether blunt or penetrating , surgical procedures 

may damage the kidneys.

Learn more about : Organ failure and transplantation

Anasarca and its causes

Anasarca, which is also known as generalised edema, 
may be caused by a number of conditions. These include:

- Heart, renal or liver failure

- Low albumin (hypoalbuminemia), burns

- Corticosteroids and more

This topic, including quiz questions, continues here:

Anasarca 

Learn more about: Aspiration pneumonia