Kidney Structure (Understanding Kidney Structure)
The kidney structure includes three main regions – the outer cortex, the inner medulla with renal pyramids, and the renal pelvis at the hilum. Blood vessels, nerves, and urine-collecting structures enter and exit through the renal hilum. Within the kidney, over a million nephrons filter blood and produce urine.
External and Internal Features of Kidney
The structure of human kidney is as follows:
- Externally, the kidneys are surrounded by three layers:
- Renal fascia: It forms the outer layer and is made of tough connective tissue.
- Perirenal fat capsule: It provides support to the kidneys.
- Renal capsule: Innermost layer surrounding the kidney.
- Internally, the kidney is divided into three regions:
- Cortex: Nephrons are present in high numbers hence giving it a granular appearance.
- Medulla: It consists of renal pyramids and renal papillae.
- Renal pelvi: They are located at the hilum and serves as a passage for urine to exit through the ureters.
- The kidney receives its blood supply through the renal hilum, where arteries, veins, and nerves enter and exit.
- The renal arteries branch into segmental arteries, interlobar arteries, and eventually supply the nephrons.
- Each kidney contains over a million nephrons, the functional units responsible for filtering blood and producing urine.
- Nephrons can be cortical (in the outer cortex) or juxtamedullary (near the medulla), each consisting of a renal corpuscle, renal tubule, and associated blood vessels.
Also Read: Functions of Renal Tubules
Kidney
The kidneys, two bean-shaped powerhouses nestled against the back muscles in the upper abdominal area, play a pivotal role in our body’s waste management and fluid balance systems. Beyond their basic excretory functions—filtering minerals and wastes from the blood and maintaining fluid harmony—their intricate structure, comprising the renal cortex, medulla, and pelvis, showcases the complexity of their operations. This article delves deep into the anatomy and functionality of the kidneys, enriched with the latest research findings on kidney health and advancements in disease treatment. Join us as we explore the kidneys’ essential roles, from their fundamental structure to the cutting-edge discoveries that continue to illuminate our understanding of these vital organs.
Table of Content
- What is Kidney?
- Kidney Diagram in Human Body
- Kidney Anatomy Explained (Detailed Anatomy of the Kidney)
- How These Structures Work Together (How Kidneys Work)
- Kidney Structure (Understanding Kidney Structure)
- Nephron Function and Structure
- Nephron Structure
- Functions of the Kidney (Role of Kidneys in Body Regulation)
- Kidney Filtration Process
- Common Kidney Diseases
- Signs of Kidney Disease
- Kidney Failure Symptoms and Causes
- Kidney Stones: Causes and Prevention
- Diabetic Nephropathy: Kidney Diabetes Impact
- Recent Advances in Kidney Research
- Advancements In The Treatment of Kidney Diseases
- References and Further Reading
- Trustworthy Medical Sources for Kidney Anatomy and Functions
- Case Studies on Kidney Health
- Preventive Measures for Maintaining Kidney Health
- Management Strategies for Chronic Kidney Diseases (CKD)