Pre-renal AKI: This is often the most common cause of AKI, resulting from decreased blood flow to the kidneys (e.g., due to dehydration, blood loss, or heart failure). It's a likely diagnosis because it can occur in a wide range of clinical settings and is often reversible with prompt treatment.

Acute Tubular Necrosis (ATN): A common cause of intrinsic renal AKI, often resulting from ischemia or nephrotoxicity (e.g., from certain medications or contrast agents). It's a likely diagnosis in patients with a history of exposure to nephrotoxic agents or severe hypotension.
Post-renal AKI: Obstruction of the urinary tract (e.g., due to kidney stones, tumors, or benign prostatic hyperplasia) can cause AKI. This diagnosis is likely in patients with symptoms of urinary obstruction or a history of conditions that may cause obstruction.

Rhabdomyolysis: Although not as common, this condition (causing muscle breakdown and release of myoglobin, which is toxic to the kidneys) can lead to severe AKI and is potentially life-threatening if not promptly recognized and treated.
Sepsis: Sepsis can cause AKI through a combination of hypoperfusion, inflammation, and direct renal injury. Missing this diagnosis can have severe consequences, including high mortality.
Atheroembolic Disease: This condition, where cholesterol crystals embolize to the kidneys, can cause AKI and is often associated with recent vascular procedures or anticoagulation. It's crucial not to miss this diagnosis due to its potential for severe and irreversible kidney damage.

Vasculitis: Conditions like ANCA-associated vasculitis or lupus nephritis can cause AKI but are less common. They are important to consider in patients with systemic symptoms or known autoimmune diseases.
Thrombotic Microangiopathy: This includes conditions like thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) or hemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS), which are rare but can cause AKI and are critical to diagnose due to their specific treatments and potential for severe outcomes.
Glomerulonephritis: Various forms of glomerulonephritis can present with AKI, including post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, IgA nephropathy, or membranous nephropathy. While not as common as other causes, they are important to consider in the differential diagnosis, especially in patients with hematuria or proteinuria.