ABSTRACT
Chronic renal failure results when the functions of the kidneys have been so reduced by a chronic disease process that there is retention of nitrogenous waste products normally excreted in the urine. In chronic renal failure the kidney's inability to control salt and water balance can lead to either overhydration or dehydration. Excessive potassium and phosphate, generated by dietary intake or protein breakdown, are normally excreted by the kidney. The principal endocrine functions of the kidney concern bone metabolism, erythropoiesis, and blood pressure control. The renal changes resulting from hypertension cause further injury to the already damaged kidneys and hasten the onset of renal failure. Autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease is much less common but leads to renal failure in infancy or early childhood. Renal failure is either absent or mild and transient, and the kidneys usually recover completely, even after recurrent attacks.
