ABSTRACT
Acute renal failure (ARF) is a syndrome characterized by abrupt deterioration of renal function with a resultant inability to regulate solute and water balance. ARF can be caused by acute prerenal failure, primary (intrinsic) failure, or postrenal failure. The causes of hemodynamically mediated ARF are the same as those predisposing to prerenal ARF; the influences are more profound and prolonged in intensity and duration with intrinsic ARF. The administration of many chemicals and drugs has been associated with the development of ARF. Ingestion of ethylene glycol is the most common cause of nephrotoxicity encountered in veterinary medical patients. The mortality rate is high. Successful treatment of the intoxicated patient hinges on a rapid diagnosis and early institution of therapy. Aminoglycoside nephrotoxicity is the second most common cause of ARF in dogs and cats. The aminoglycosides then interfere with mitochondrial function and with normal lysosomal maturation and turnover. Lysosomal phospholipase is inhibited.
