Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
This illustration demonstrates the normal kidney physiology, including the Proximal Convoluted Tubule (PCT), Loop of Henle, and Distal Convoluted Tubule (DCT). It also includes illustrations showing where some types of diuretics act, and what they do. Renal physiology (Latin renes, "kidneys") is the study of the physiology of the kidney.
The kidney has many functions, which a well-functioning kidney realizes by filtering blood in a process known as glomerular filtration. A major measure of kidney function is the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). The glomerular filtration rate is the flow rate of filtered fluid through the kidney.
The kidney maintains the electrolyte concentrations, osmolality, and acid-base balance of blood plasma within the narrow limits that are compatible with effective cellular function; and the kidney participates in blood pressure regulation and in the maintenance of steady whole-organism water volume [4] Fluid flow through the nephron must be ...
Increases in vasa recta flow wash away metabolites and cause the medulla to lose osmolarity as well. Increases in flow will disrupt the kidney's ability to form concentrated urine. [3] Overall the loop of Henle reabsorbs around 25% of filtered ions and 20% of the filtered water in a normal kidney. These ions are mostly Na +, Cl −, K +, Ca 2 ...
Unlike mammals, the kidneys of reptiles do not have a clear distinction between cortex and medulla. [43] The kidneys lack the loop of Henle, have fewer nephrons (from about 3,000 to 30,000), and cannot produce hypertonic urine. [3] [21] Nitrogenous waste products excreted by the kidneys may include uric acid, urea and ammonia. [55]
A predetermined percentage of plasma water is removed in the hemofilter based upon a prescription. Typically, no more than 2 liters an hour of fluid is removed. Unlike hemodialysis, hemofiltration and hemodiafiltration, no dialysate or replacement fluids are used in SCUF. [2]
An estimate of the GFR is used clinically to determine the degree of kidney impairment and to track the progression of the disease. The GFR, however, does not reveal the source of the kidney disease. This is accomplished by urinalysis, measurement of urine protein excretion, kidney imaging, and, if necessary, kidney biopsy. [1]
Only when the amount of functioning kidney tissue is greatly diminished does one develop chronic kidney disease. Renal replacement therapy , in the form of dialysis or kidney transplantation , is indicated when the glomerular filtration rate has fallen very low or if the renal dysfunction leads to severe symptoms.