Summary of Kidney: Filtration & Control

These flashcards cover key concepts related to kidney filtration, nephron structures, hormonal regulation, and renal physiology.

Kidney filtration rate

The rate at which kidneys filter plasma; normal is approximately 180 L/day for males and 115 L/day for females.

Renal blood flow

The volume of blood flow to the kidneys; accounts for 20–25% of cardiac output, or about 1.2 L/min in a large person.

Nephron

The functional unit of the kidney, consisting of Bowman's capsule, glomerulus, and tubules.

Proximal convoluted tubule (PCT)

The primary site for reabsorption of water and sodium in the nephron.

Loop of Henle

Structure in the nephron divided into descending and ascending limbs; plays a key role in concentrating urine.

Collecting duct

The final segment of the nephron that drains urine into the bladder, where water reabsorption is fine-tuned by ADH.

RAAS (renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system)

A hormone system that regulates blood pressure and fluid balance by increasing renal sodium reabsorption.

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR)

A key clinical metric for kidney function; considered normal when ≥ 90 mL/min.

ADH (antidiuretic hormone)

Hormone that promotes water reabsorption in the collecting duct by inserting aquaporins.

Proteinuria

The presence of excess proteins in urine, indicating failure of the glomerular filtration barrier.

Diuretics

Medications that increase urine output by inhibiting renal water reabsorption.

ACE inhibitors

Drugs that block the angiotensin-converting enzyme, lowering blood pressure by reducing vasoconstriction.