Acute renal failure. II. Management of suspected and established disease

Because the pathogenesis of acute renal failure is multifactorial, clinical evaluation and ancillary studies must be performed systematically to reliably differentiate the various disorders. This assessment includes measurement of the serum creatinine and urea concentrations, urine composition and flow rate, and fractional excretion of sodium. Radiodiagnostic techniques such as ultrasound, radionuclide renal scans, and nuclear magnetic resonance may provide useful anatomic and functional information. With this data base, the physician can prescribe an individualized management plan that addresses the fluid, metabolic, and nutritional necessities of the child.