Urinary System Review Flashcards

These flashcards cover essential concepts of the urinary system, including anatomy, functions, and common pathologies to aid in exam preparation.

What is the primary function of the urinary system?

To eliminate liquid and metabolic wastes, regulate blood ion concentrations, blood volume, blood pressure, and stabilize blood pH.

What are the components of the urinary system?

Kidneys, ureters, urinary bladder, and urethra.

How many liters of filtrate do kidneys filter each day?

Approximately 180 liters.

What percentage of blood comprises plasma?

About 55% of blood is plasma.

What is the renal hilum?

The indented area in the kidney that serves as the entrance for the renal artery, renal vein, ureter, nerves, and lymphatics.

What structures are included in the kidney's internal anatomy?

Renal cortex, renal medulla, renal pyramids, and renal pelvis.

What are the two main parts of the nephron?

Renal corpuscle and renal tubules.

What is the function of the glomerulus?

To filter blood plasma and dissolved substances into the glomerular capsule.

What is the main function of the proximal convoluted tubule (PCT)?

Reabsorption of water, ions, and nutrients; secretion of waste.

Describe the function of the descending loop of Henle.

Permeable to water but impermeable to ions; allows water to be reabsorbed.

What is the role of the ascending loop of Henle?

Permeable to ions and impermeable to water; facilitates active transport of sodium chloride out of the tubule.

What is the purpose of the distal convoluted tubule (DCT)?

Final site for reabsorption and secretion of ions and water.

What does the collecting duct do?

Gathers filtrate from multiple nephrons and is the last site for reabsorption of nutrients and water.

What hormones regulate the kidneys?

Erythropoietin and calcitriol.

What does the nephron reabsorb?

Water, glucose, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and ions.

What are the common components of urine?

Water, urea, chloride, sodium, potassium, and creatinine.

What does glomerular filtration involve?

Filtered blood plasma and dissolved substances are collected in the glomerular capsule.

What happens during tubular reabsorption?

Substances are reabsorbed from the renal tubule lumen back into the blood.

What substances are commonly secreted in the nephron?

Metabolic wastes, drugs, and excess ions.

What condition can occur due to reduced glomerular filtration?

Renal failure, leading to acidosis, anemia, and edema.

What is the anatomical position of the kidneys?

Retroperitoneal, partly protected by lower ribs.

What is the role of the ureters?

To transport urine from the kidneys to the urinary bladder.

What does the bladder do?

Stores urine until it is ready to be voided.

What is micturition?

The discharge of urine involving voluntary and involuntary muscle contractions.

What triggers the urge to urinate?

Stretch receptors activate when the bladder reaches a certain volume, approximately 200 mL.

What are common urinary tract complications?

Urinary incontinence, overactive bladder, and urinary retention.

How do ADH and aldosterone affect kidneys?

ADH regulates water reabsorption, while aldosterone regulates sodium reabsorption.

What is the role of the Juxtaglomerular Apparatus (JGA)?

Regulates blood pressure in the kidney.

What is the difference between cortical and juxtamedullary nephrons?

Cortical nephrons are primarily in the cortex and have shorter loops, while juxtamedullary nephrons have longer loops and are located at the cortex-medulla border.

How does urine formation occur?

Through glomerular filtration, tubular reabsorption, and tubular secretion.

What are filtration slits formed by?

Podocytes in the glomerular capsule.

What connects the renal artery and renal vein at the hilum?

The ureter.

How does the bladder prevent backflow of urine?

The ureter openings compress when the bladder fills.

What percentage of filtrate is reabsorbed?

99% of the filtrate is reabsorbed.

What anatomical structure stores urine before voiding?

The urinary bladder.

What is a significant health concern related to urinary function in females?

Higher incidence of urinary tract infections due to shorter urethra.

What is urinary incontinence?

Inability to control urination.

What is a common treatment for renal failure?

Hemodialysis or kidney transplant.

What is the function of the renal capsule?

To protect the kidney and maintain its shape.

How do the kidneys contribute to homeostasis?

By regulating fluid volume and composition, pH balance, and electrolyte levels.

What does urinary retention indicate?

Inability to release urine adequately.