Kidney failure A condition that occurs when the kidneys are not working properly. This can be a slow (chronic) process over time or can happen very quickly if someone becomes ill. If kidney failure is severe and irreversible, dialysis may be required. Related Articles: Glossary: UremiaGlossary: LactateGlossary: Lactic acidosisGlossary: DialysisNEPHROPATHY (KIDNEY DISEASE)