Urine and Kidneys Part 2

This flashcard set focuses on the key vocabulary terms related to urine and kidney functions, providing definitions that will aid in understanding the urinary system.

Urine

A liquid by-product of metabolism and is excreted by the kidneys.

Kidneys

Organs that filter blood, remove waste, and produce urine.

Filtration

The process by which the kidneys filter blood to remove waste.

Nephrons

The functional units of the kidneys responsible for urine formation.

Glomerulus

A network of capillaries at the start of a nephron that filters blood.

Bowman's capsule

A cup-like structure that encases the glomerulus and collects filtrate.

Reabsorption

The process by which the kidneys return essential substances to the blood.

Secretion

The process by which additional waste products are added to urine.

Loop of Henle

A long, U-shaped part of the nephron where reabsorption occurs.

Collecting duct

A tube that collects urine from multiple nephrons and delivers it to the renal pelvis.

Renal pelvis

The funnel-shaped structure that collects urine from the kidney and drains it into the ureter.

Ureter

A tube that carries urine from the kidneys to the bladder.

Bladder

A muscular sac that stores urine until it is excreted.

Urethra

The duct through which urine is discharged from the bladder.

Osmoregulation

The process by which the body regulates water and electrolyte balance.

Antidiuretic hormone (ADH)

A hormone that regulates water retention in the kidneys.

Aldosterone

A hormone that regulates sodium and potassium balance in the kidneys.

Dialysis

A medical procedure for filtering waste from the blood when kidneys are unable to do so.

Urinalysis

The examination of urine to assess health and diagnose conditions.

Acid-base balance

The mechanism the body uses to maintain the pH of the blood and other fluids.

Hydration

The process of causing the body to absorb water.

Dehydration

A condition resulting from excessive loss of fluids in the body.

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR)

The rate at which blood is filtered through the kidneys.

Kidney stones

Mineral and salt deposits that form in the kidneys and can cause pain.

Acute kidney injury

A sudden decrease in kidney function.

Chronic kidney disease

A long-term condition where the kidneys gradually lose function.

Urinary tract infection (UTI)

An infection in any part of the urinary system.

Homeostasis

The body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment.

Electrolytes

Minerals in the body that carry an electric charge and are essential for normal function.

Renin

An enzyme released by the kidneys that regulates blood pressure.

Nephron loop

Another name for the Loop of Henle where concentration of urine occurs.

Proteinuria

The presence of excess proteins in urine, often indicating kidney damage.

Hematuria

The presence of blood in urine.

Casts

Tiny tube-shaped particles that can be found in urine and indicate kidney disease.

Creatinine

A waste product from muscle metabolism eliminated by the kidneys.

Uremia

A buildup of waste products in the blood due to kidney failure.

Urinary system

The organ system responsible for producing, storing, and excreting urine.

Micturition

The act of urination or voiding.

Nephrolithiasis

The formation of kidney stones.

Hydronephrosis

Swelling of a kidney due to a build-up of urine.