Final answer:
The inability of kidneys to excrete waste and maintain homeostasis is known as renal failure, which can result from diseases such as diabetic nephropathy or polycystic kidney disease, leading to severe health issues requiring interventions such as hemodialysis or kidney transplantation.
Step-by-step explanation:
An inability of the kidneys to excrete adequately to maintain homeostasis is known as renal failure. This condition is characterized biochemically by an elevated serum creatinine and a decrease in the glomerular filtration rate. When the kidneys don't function properly, there can be an array of problems including abnormal levels of fluids, acids, potassium, calcium, phosphate, hematuria (blood in the urine), and anemia over the long term. Renal failure can have serious repercussions on health, including an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Renal failure can be the result of progressive kidney diseases such as diabetic nephropathy or polycystic kidney disease. Kidney function could degenerate to the point that kidney transplantation or frequent hemodialysis is required to maintain life. In hemodialysis, a patient's blood is filtered externally before being returned to their circulation.
If kidney failure occurs, vital functions are compromised or lost, leading to symptoms such as weakness, lethargy, shortness of breath, anemia, edema (swelling), metabolic acidosis, rising potassium levels, heart arrhythmias, and incontinence.