Urinary System Anatomy

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to the urinary system anatomy, including major organs, structures, and their functions.

Kidneys

Major organs of the urinary system that produce urine and excrete waste products.

Ureters

Ducts that convey urine from the kidneys to the urinary bladder.

Urinary Bladder

Muscular sac that acts as a reservoir for urine.

Urethra

Canal that conveys urine from the bladder to the exterior.

Upper Urinary Tract (UUT)

Comprises the kidneys and ureters.

Lower Urinary Tract (LUT)

Comprises the urinary bladder and urethra.

Nephron

Basic structural and functional unit of the kidney.

Glomerulus

Cluster of capillaries in the nephron that filters blood.

Bowman's Capsule

Surrounds the glomerulus and collects filtrate.

Renal pelvis

Funnel-shaped structure that collects urine from the major calyces.

Urinalysis (UA)

Analysis of urine properties to aid diagnosis.

Erythropoietin

Hormone produced by the kidneys that regulates red blood cell production.

Detrusor Muscle

Smooth muscle in the bladder wall that contracts during urination.

Trigone

Triangular area in the bladder defined by the openings of the ureters and urethra.

Cystitis

Inflammation of the urinary bladder.

Nephritis

Inflammation of the kidney.