Kidneys Flashcards
The kidney produces two hormones
Calcitriol and erythropoietin
What does Calcitriol do
Converts vitamin D to its active from and help regulate calcium homeostasis
What does erythropoietin do
Stimulates the production of red blood cells
The medial indentation of the kidney is called what and through the ureter emerges from
Called renal hilum and emerges from the kidneys along with blood vessels, lymphatic vessels and nerves
What are the three tissue layers of the kidney most superficial to the deepest
Renal capsule, adipose capsule and renal fascia
The renal capsule is
A layer of connective tissue that anchors the kidney to the surrounding structures and to the abdominal wall
The adipose capsule is
A mass of fatty tissue that protects the kidney from trauma and holds it in place within the abdominal cavity
What does the renal fascia do
Serves as a barrier against trauma and helps maintain the shape of the kidney
What constitutes the functional portion of the kidney and what is it called
The renal cortex and renal pyramids of the renal medulla. Called parenchyma
Within the parenchyma are the functional units of the kidney about
1 million nephrons
What is the major role of the kidneys
Maintenance of electrolyte balance, regulation of blood pH, regulation of blood pressure, regulation of blood volume, maintenance of water balance, dispose of nitrogen-containing wastes and manufacture urine.
