[Classification of renal failure]

The authors analyze the data available in the literature on acute and chronic renal failure (ARF and CRF, respectively). The mechanisms of their development (common and distinctive) are pathogenetically assessed and the functional reserve of the kidneys is determined. The phasic character of development of renal failure (compensation, subcompensation and decompensation) is pathogenetically substantiated. ARF and CRF are shown to be two forms of renal failure development which have both pathogenetic and distinctive characteristics in its mechanisms.