Kidneys

Renes

Bean-shaped organs located retroperitoneally on either side of the vertebral column at the T12-L3 level. The right kidney sits slightly lower due to the liver. Each kidney contains approximately 1 million nephrons, the functional filtering units. The renal hilum transmits the renal artery, vein, and ureter.

Type Organ
Body System Urinary
Body Region Abdomen
Latin Name Renes
FMA ID 7203

Function

Filter approximately 180 liters of blood daily, producing 1-2 liters of urine. Regulate fluid balance, electrolyte concentration, acid-base balance, and blood pressure. Produce erythropoietin and activate vitamin D.

Clinical Significance

Chronic kidney disease affects millions worldwide and may progress to end-stage renal disease requiring dialysis or transplantation. Kidney stones (nephrolithiasis) cause severe pain. Renal cell carcinoma is the most common kidney cancer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Kidneys?
Bean-shaped organs located retroperitoneally on either side of the vertebral column at the T12-L3 level. The right kidney sits slightly lower due to the liver. Each kidney contains approximately 1 million nephrons, the functional filtering units. The renal hilum transmits the renal artery, vein, and
What is the function of the Kidneys?
Filter approximately 180 liters of blood daily, producing 1-2 liters of urine. Regulate fluid balance, electrolyte concentration, acid-base balance, and blood pressure. Produce erythropoietin and activate vitamin D.
What body system is the Kidneys part of?
The Kidneys is part of the Urinary.
What conditions affect the Kidneys?
Chronic kidney disease affects millions worldwide and may progress to end-stage renal disease requiring dialysis or transplantation. Kidney stones (nephrolithiasis) cause severe pain. Renal cell carcinoma is the most common kidney cancer.
Where is the Kidneys located?
The Kidneys is located in the Abdomen region of the body.

Related Structures

allantois of embryonic urinary system allantois basal cell layer of urothelium basal cell layer of uroepithelium cloacal membrane embryonic cloacal membrane embryonic cloaca cloaca embryonic cloacal epithelium cloacal epithelium embryonic cloacal lumen excretory tube Hatschek's nephridium

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.