American Board of Pathology (ABPath) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Acute renal failure, also known as acute kidney injury (AKI), is often characterized by a rapid decline in renal function. It can result from various causes, including ischemia, toxins, or obstruction. One of the critical aspects of AKI is that it is often potentially reversible, especially when treated appropriately and in a timely manner.

In many cases, if the underlying cause of acute renal failure is identified and addressed—such as improving blood flow, removing obstructive processes, or stopping nephrotoxic drugs—there is a significant chance that renal function can recover completely. This reversibility is especially true in cases where the renal tissue has not sustained irreversible damage.

While chronic renal failure represents permanent damage to the kidneys and typically requires more long-term management strategies, acute renal failure's potential for recovery underscores the importance of prompt diagnosis and intervention. Thus, the assertion that acute renal failure is potentially reversible is indeed true, making that the correct answer.