Introduction

Acute kidney injury is an abrupt and rapid decrease in kidney function over hours to days or weeks. It can be anywhere on a spectrum from mild loss in kidney function to complete kidney failure. The kidneys are responsible for many other functions, such as keeping balance of electrolytes and water in the body. While most people are born with two kidneys, it is possible to live a healthy life with only one kidney - whether that be by birth, kidney donation, or removal for another indication.