Several hormones have specific, important roles in regulating kidney function. They act to stimulate or inhibit blood flow. Some of these are endocrine, acting from a distance, whereas others are …

For patients with more severe or end-stage kidney disease, dialysis, or the use of a dialyzer machine to filter the blood and remove toxins when kidney function is decreased, is often indicated. There are …

Key Points The renal cortex, renal medulla, and renal pelvis are the three main internal regions found in a kidney. Nephrons, masses of tiny tubules, are largely located in the medulla and receive fluid from …

It is the primary force that drives glomerular filtration. Glomerular filtration is the first step in urine formation and constitutes the basic physiologic function of the kidneys. It describes the process of …

Because the kidney filters blood, its network of blood vessels is an important component of its structure and function. The arteries, veins, and nerves that supply the kidney enter and exit at the renal hilum.

The kidneys help maintain the acid–base balance by excreting hydrogen ions into the urine and reabsorbing bicarbonate from the urine.

Key aspects of QSEN pertaining to fluid and electrolyte homeostasis through urinary system regulation include the following: Patient-centered care: A comprehensive understanding of the urinary system’s …

Specific hormones and paracrine agents help regulate renal function, blood pressure, and electrolyte balance. Renin–Angiotensin–Aldosterone Mechanism is a complex system that regulates blood …

The left kidney is located at about the T12 to L3 vertebrae, whereas the right is lower due to slight displacement by the liver. Upper portions of the kidneys are somewhat protected by the eleventh and …

The renal structures that conduct the essential work of the kidney cannot be seen by the naked eye. Only a light or electron microscope can reveal these structures. Even then, serial sections and …