Final answer:
Kidney failure, also known as renal failure, occurs when the kidneys are unable to perform their function of removing waste from the blood. It can be categorized as acute renal failure or chronic kidney disease. Acute renal failure is a rapid loss of kidney function, while chronic kidney disease is a slow decrease in kidney function.
Step-by-step explanation:
Kidney failure, also known as renal failure, occurs when the kidneys are unable to perform their function of removing waste from the blood. There are two main types of renal failure: acute renal failure and chronic kidney disease. Acute renal failure is a rapid loss of kidney function, usually characterized by decreased urine production and disturbances in body fluids and electrolytes. Chronic kidney disease is a slow decrease in kidney function that may lead to permanent kidney failure.