Urine 4L

A comprehensive set of Q&A flashcards covering vasa recta function, urine characteristics, abnormal urine constituents, trigone significance, kidney stone risk factors and symptoms, and the autonomic control of micturition.

What is the significance of the vasa recta?

It maintains the medullary salt gradient created by the countercurrent multiplier, preventing washout and allowing proper urine concentration.

What are the physical characteristics of urine?

Volume – varies with hydration;

Color/turbidity – normally clear/yellow;

Smell – mild, varies with diet/health;

Specific gravity – indicates urine concentration;

pH – reflects acidity/alkalinity.

What are the chemical components of urine?

Water (95%) and Solutes (5%): salts (Na+, K+, Cl-, etc.),

nitrogenous wastes (urea, uric acid, creatinine),

hormones,

drugs,

small amounts of ketone bodies.

What is glucosuria and what causes it?

Glucose in urine, usually due to diabetes mellitus.

What is proteinuria and what causes it?

Protein in urine; causes include kidney damage, high BP, trauma, or inflammation.

What is hematuria and what causes it?

RBCs in urine; can be from kidney injury, stones, infection, or menstruation.

What is pyuria and what causes it?

WBCs in urine; often from urinary tract infections or kidney inflammation.

What is myoglobinuria and what causes it?

Myoglobin in urine; caused by rhabdomyolysis from extreme muscle breakdown or statin reactions.

What is the significance of the trigone?

Funnels urine into the urethra during bladder contraction; remains in place regardless of bladder volume; common site for UTIs.

What are common risk factors for renal calculi (kidney stones)?

Dehydration; Low urine flow; Frequent UTIs; Mineral imbalances in urine.

What are symptoms of kidney stones?

Severe back or groin pain.

What role does the sympathetic nervous system play in micturition?

Stores urine; relaxes detrusor muscle; contracts internal urethral sphincter; inhibits urination.

What role does the parasympathetic nervous system play in micturition?

Triggers urination; contracts detrusor muscle; relaxes internal urethral sphincter; promotes urination.