Nonoliguric Acute Renal Failure

Nonoliguric acute renal failure is being recognized more commonly as a frequent initial observation for azotemia. Use of automated biochemical monitoring, aminoglycoside antibiotic utilization, and administration of potent diuretics and mannitol in settings of oliguria all contribute to its increased incidence. There appears to be less morbidity and mortality in patients with nonoliguric acute renal failure, and diagnostic urinary indexes suggest less of an insult to renal function. This article reviews the available literature and explores the reasons for the increased frequency of recognition of nonoliguric acute renal failure. Another aim is to compare nonoliguric acute renal failure with the oliguric from because there are important differences to be recognized by the clinician.