Management of acute renal failure in the pediatric intensive care unit.

Pediatric acute renal failure (ARF) is a dynamic entity that has many causes. ARF is frequently seen in the pediatric population and is associated with increased mortality and long-term morbidity rates. Of importance is its early detection so as to allow interventions to either prevent or treat the disease timely during its course. Recent developments in the definitions and classification schemes and the identification of new biomarkers shall allow better predictive interventions for childhood ARF. ARF management in children requires special considerations. Optimal care for the pediatric patient requiring renal replacement therapy requires an understanding of the causes and patterns of pediatric ARF and recognition of the local expertise with respect to the personnel and equipment resources. The aim of this article is to review pediatric ARF management with an emphasis on emerging practice patterns and the modalities for renal replacement therapy.