Introduction:
The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine, below the ribcage. They are responsible for filtering waste products from the blood and excreting them in the form of urine. The kidneys also play a vital role in regulating the body's water and electrolyte balance, blood pressure, and the production of red blood cells.
Structure of the Kidney:
The kidney is divided into three main regions: the cortex, medulla, and pelvis. The cortex is the outermost region and contains the glomeruli, which are networks of capillaries responsible for filtering the blood. The medulla is the middle region and contains the renal tubules, which are responsible for reabsorbing useful substances from the filtrate and secreting waste products into it. The pelvis is the innermost region and contains the renal pelvis, which is responsible for collecting urine and directing it towards the ureter.
Function of the Kidney:
The primary function of the kidney is to filter waste products from the blood and excrete them in the form of urine. The filtration process begins in the glomeruli, where blood is forced through tiny capillaries and into the renal tubules. In the renal tubules, useful substances such as water, glucose, and amino acids are reabsorbed back into the blood, while waste products such as urea and creatinine are secreted into the filtrate.
The urine is then collected in the renal pelvis and directed towards the ureter, which transports it to the bladder for storage and eventual elimination from the body.
Diagram of the Kidney:
Here's a labeled diagram of the kidney:
 |
| Diagram of kidney |
Renal artery
Renal vein
Renal pelvis
Ureter
Cortex
Medulla
Renal pyramid
Minor calyx
Major calyx
Renal capsule
Glomerulus
Bowman's capsule
Proximal convoluted tubule
Loop of Henle
Distal convoluted tubule
Collecting duct
Papilla
Conclusion:
The kidney is a vital organ responsible for filtering waste products from the blood and regulating the body's water and electrolyte balance. It is divided into three main regions: the cortex, medulla, and pelvis, and contains various structures such as the glomeruli, renal tubules, and renal pelvis. Understanding the structure and function of the kidney is crucial for maintaining overall health and preventing kidney diseases.
