Final answer:
The term 'anuria' denotes a condition of failure to produce urine, which is typified by excretion below 10 ml/day or complete lack of urine output, commonly associated with acute renal failure or nephritis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term anuria refers to a condition where there is a failure to produce urine. Specifically, when the excretion of urine is below 10 ml/day or no urine is excreted at all, it is defined as anuria. This concerning condition often indicates severe issues such as acute renal failure or nephritis. Anuria must be distinguished from oliguria, which is characterized by the production of less than 500mL of urine per day and can be caused by dehydration, shock, fever, vomiting, or renal disease. Unlike polyuria, which is excessive urine production and can occur due to diabetes mellitus or diabetes insipidus, anuria signals a virtual absence of urine output and can be a sign of very serious underlying health problems requiring prompt medical attention.