Sudden and temporary loss of kidney function. The most common cause (60% to 70% of all cases) is a situation, when the kidneys do not receive enough blood to filter. A disruption of blood flow can result from a drastic drop in blood pressure or blood loss. Other important causes are severe infections (sepsis) or severe cardiovascular events such as mycocardial infarction or heart failure. There is a good chance of recovery if the underlying cause of acute renal failure can be eliminated. Depending on the severity of the decrease of renal function, intermittent or continuous dialysis treatment may be necessary.

An organ or tissue transplant from one human to another.

The condition of having too few red blood cells. Healthy red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body. If the blood is low on red blood cells, the body does not get enough oxygen. People with anaemia may be tired and pale and may feel their heartbeat change. Anaemia is very common in people with chronic kidney disease or those on dialysis (see also erythropoietin).

Surgical connection of an artery directly to a vein, usually in the forearm, created in patients who will need hemodialysis. The AV fistula causes the vein to grow thicker, allowing the repeated needle insertions required for hemodialysis.