Menu Healthy Lifestyle Diseases & Conditions First Aid Symptoms Tests & Procedures Videos Definitions FAQs Acute renal failureUpdated: 2017-06-13OverviewAcute kidney failure (acute renal failure) occurs when the kidneys suddenly can't filter waste from the blood. Acute renal failure develops rapidly over a few hours or days. It's most common in those who are critically ill and already hospitalized. It may be fatal.TreatmentsTreatment includes adjusting blood fluids, medication, and dialysis. © 1998-2022 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research(MFMER). All rights reserved. Terms of Use