What is the third leading cause of acute renal failure in hospitalized patients?

Contrast media-induced nephropathy is recognized as the third leading cause of acute renal failure in hospitalized patients. This condition occurs when the kidneys are adversely affected by the contrast agents used during imaging studies. These agents can lead to a decrease in renal perfusion or direct toxicity to renal tubular cells, especially in patients who may already have risk factors such as pre-existing renal impairment, diabetes mellitus, or dehydration.

In the context of acute renal failure, understanding the causes is critical for prevention and management. Dehydration, while a significant factor, is more commonly associated with prerenal acute kidney injury. Kidney stones typically cause chronic issues and obstructions rather than acute renal failure in a hospitalized setting. Urinary tract infections can lead to acute kidney injury but are more often seen as a complication rather than a primary cause in hospitalized patients. Hence, the prominence of contrast media-induced nephropathy in acute renal failure scenarios makes it a key focus for healthcare providers when preparing patients for imaging procedures.