What is the pathophysiology of acute renal failure?

 Acute renal failure (ARF) can be caused by several factors, but is most often the result of decreased blood flow to the kidneys. This decrease in blood flow can be due to a number of things, including heart attack, sepsis, or trauma. When the kidneys don't get enough blood, they can't function properly and start to shut down.

ARF can also be caused by direct damage to the kidneys, such as from a nephrotoxic drug or infection. In some cases, ARF may occur spontaneously without any known cause. Regardless of the cause, ARF leads to a build-up of toxins in the blood and quickly becomes life-threatening if not treated.