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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is the primary excretory role of the lungs?

  • Excreting excess mineral salts
  • Producing bile pigments
  • Removing carbon dioxide and water vapor (correct)
  • Removing urea from the blood

What substances are excreted by the skin?

  • Carbon dioxide and water vapor
  • Urea and bile pigments
  • Mineral salts and water (correct)
  • Excess amino acids

Which organ is responsible for forming urea through the deamination of excess amino acids?

  • Liver (correct)
  • Lungs
  • Kidneys
  • Skin

What role does the alimentary canal play in excretion?

<p>Excreting solid waste including bile pigments and excess mineral salts (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following are the kidneys responsible for excreting?

<p>Urea, mineral salts, and water (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of the bladder in the excretory system?

<p>Storing urine excreted by the kidneys (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following mechanisms is vital for maintaining blood pH and preventing acidosis?

<p>Exhaling carbon dioxide (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which process does the liver perform to prepare waste products for safer elimination?

<p>Transforming toxins and waste products (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the primary functions of the urinary system?

<p>Removing waste products and regulating water and electrolyte levels (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which sequence correctly represents the organs of the urinary system involved in urine flow?

<p>Kidneys, ureters, bladder, urethra (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a primary function of the kidneys?

<p>Digestion (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the functional unit of the kidney called?

<p>Nephron (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In which part of the nephron does ultrafiltration occur?

<p>Bowman's Capsule (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Where does the majority of reabsorption take place in the nephron?

<p>Proximal Convoluted Tubule (PCT) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The distal convoluted tubule is primarily responsible for which process?

<p>Regulating ion and water balance (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the collecting duct?

<p>Delivering concentrated urine to the renal pelvis (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which hormone primarily helps the body retain water by increasing the permeability of the kidney's collecting ducts?

<p>Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Where is ADH synthesized?

<p>Hypothalamus (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does aldosterone regulate blood pressure?

<p>By increasing sodium reabsorption, indirectly influencing water retention (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What stimulates the secretion of aldosterone?

<p>An increase in the blood's potassium level or a decrease in sodium level (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement explains how ADH responds to overhydration?

<p>ADH secretion decreases, leading to dilute urine. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common symptom of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?

<p>Fatigue and swelling (edema) (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential cause of Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)?

<p>Severe dehydration (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a symptom of kidney stones?

<p>Intense pain in the back or side (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is glomerulonephritis characterized by?

<p>Inflammation of the glomeruli (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can kidney diseases impact the body over time?

<p>Fluid imbalances and electrolyte disturbances (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following lifestyle changes can help prevent kidney diseases?

<p>Maintaining a healthy diet and managing blood pressure (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient presents with a decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and proteinuria. Further tests reveal elevated levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine. Which condition is MOST likely causing these findings?

<p>Chronic kidney disease (CKD) (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with a history of hypertension is diagnosed with nephrosclerosis. Which of the following pathological changes is MOST likely observed in the kidneys of this patient?

<p>Thickening and hardening of the walls of the small blood vessels (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is investigating the effects of a novel drug on kidney function. They observe that the drug significantly reduces the reabsorption of sodium ions (Na+) in the proximal convoluted tubule (PCT). Which of the following is the MOST likely consequence of this drug effect?

<p>Decreased blood pressure due to reduced water retention (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) is undergoing hemodialysis. During the dialysis session, a technician accidentally sets the dialysate sodium concentration significantly lower than the patient's serum sodium concentration. Which of the following complications is MOST likely to occur due to this error?

<p>Cerebral edema due to rapid influx of water into brain cells (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which condition would promote the body's ability to produce more concentrated urine?

<p>Dehydration (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The kidneys are located:

<p>Retroperitoneally (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which hormone would DECREASE sodium reabsorption?

<p>Inhibitin (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the primary function of excretion?

<p>To eliminate metabolic waste products from the body. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Carbon dioxide and water vapor, which are excreted by the lungs, are primarily byproducts of what metabolic process?

<p>Cellular respiration (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Sweat, excreted by the skin, is composed of water, mineral salts, and small amounts of which other waste product?

<p>Urea (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Urea formation in the liver is a direct result of the metabolic breakdown of which type of biomolecule?

<p>Amino acids (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Bile pigments, excreted via the alimentary canal, are derived from the breakdown of:

<p>Hemoglobin (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following organs plays a crucial role in filtering blood and regulating electrolyte balance?

<p>Kidneys (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The bladder's primary role in excretion is best described as:

<p>Storing urine until elimination. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Exhaling carbon dioxide by the lungs is critical for preventing which condition?

<p>Acidosis (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the liver's role in preparing waste for excretion?

<p>Transforming toxins and waste products into forms that can be safely eliminated. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The colon's role in excretion mainly involves removing:

<p>Indigestible substances and waste products from bile. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the functional unit of the kidney responsible for filtration, reabsorption, and secretion?

<p>Nephron (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In which part of the nephron does ultrafiltration of blood primarily take place?

<p>Glomerulus and Bowman's Capsule (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The majority of reabsorption of water, ions, and organic nutrients occurs in which segment of the nephron?

<p>Proximal Convoluted Tubule (PCT) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which part of the nephron is mainly responsible for the concentration of urine by creating a salt gradient in the medulla?

<p>Loop of Henle (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the nephron, tubular secretion primarily occurs in the:

<p>Distal Convoluted Tubule (DCT) (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The collecting duct's permeability to water is directly influenced by which hormone?

<p>Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH) (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH) is synthesized in which part of the brain?

<p>Hypothalamus (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Aldosterone primarily regulates blood pressure by increasing the reabsorption of:

<p>Sodium ions (Na+) (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following conditions would stimulate the secretion of aldosterone?

<p>Decreased blood pressure (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does ADH secretion change in response to overhydration?

<p>Secretion decreases to excrete more water. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is likely to experience which of the following symptoms?

<p>Fatigue and edema (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Severe dehydration is a potential cause of which type of kidney disease?

<p>Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Intense pain in the back or side, often radiating to the groin, is a characteristic symptom of:

<p>Kidney stones (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Glomerulonephritis is characterized by:

<p>Inflammation of the glomeruli (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Over time, kidney diseases can increase the risk of which cardiovascular complication?

<p>Hypertension (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which lifestyle change is most beneficial in preventing kidney diseases?

<p>Maintaining optimal blood pressure and blood sugar levels (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a healthy nephron, which of the following substances is LEAST likely to be found in the glomerular filtrate?

<p>Large proteins (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If the afferent arteriole constricts, leading to reduced blood flow into the glomerulus, what immediate effect would this have on glomerular filtration rate (GFR)?

<p>GFR would decrease. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is experiencing metabolic acidosis. Which of the following renal responses would be expected to help restore blood pH?

<p>Increased reabsorption of bicarbonate ions (HCO3-). (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a scenario where the body is experiencing a severe salt deficit, which hormonal response would be the MOST immediate and effective in restoring sodium balance?

<p>Increased secretion of aldosterone. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Consider a patient who has a tumor in the adrenal cortex that causes excessive secretion of aldosterone. Which of the following electrolyte imbalances is MOST likely to be observed in this patient?

<p>Hypernatremia and hypokalemia (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following transport mechanisms is primarily responsible for the reabsorption of glucose in the proximal convoluted tubule (PCT)?

<p>Secondary active transport (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a substance is freely filtered at the glomerulus, completely reabsorbed in the proximal convoluted tubule, and not secreted, its clearance rate would be:

<p>Zero. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the ascending limb of the Loop of Henle, which of the following processes is crucial for establishing the medullary osmotic gradient?

<p>Active reabsorption of sodium chloride (NaCl). (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient presents with polyuria (excessive urination) and polydipsia (excessive thirst), and lab results show dilute urine despite elevated blood glucose levels. Which hormone deficiency or insensitivity is MOST likely contributing to these symptoms?

<p>ADH deficiency or renal insensitivity to ADH. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the primary waste product excreted by the lungs?

<p>Carbon dioxide (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Through which structure in the skin is sweat primarily excreted?

<p>Sweat glands (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What metabolic process in the liver leads to the formation of urea?

<p>Deamination of amino acids (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which component of bile, excreted via the alimentary canal, is derived from the breakdown of hemoglobin?

<p>Bile pigments (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main role of the kidneys in maintaining homeostasis?

<p>Filtering blood and regulating fluid balance (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which part of the urinary system directly stores urine before it is eliminated from the body?

<p>Bladder (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Exhaling carbon dioxide is crucial for preventing which condition related to blood pH?

<p>Acidosis (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The liver prepares waste products for safer elimination by primarily performing what type of process?

<p>Transformation and detoxification (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which sequence accurately describes the flow of urine after it leaves the kidneys?

<p>Ureters, bladder, urethra (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the microscopic structural and functional unit of the kidney?

<p>Nephron (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In which specific part of the nephron does ultrafiltration initially occur?

<p>Bowman's capsule (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Where in the nephron is the majority of water, glucose, and amino acids reabsorbed back into the bloodstream?

<p>Proximal Convoluted Tubule (PCT) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The distal convoluted tubule (DCT) is MOST responsible for which of the following processes in urine formation?

<p>Tubular secretion and ion balance (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the collecting duct in the nephron?

<p>Concentration of urine and final water reabsorption (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which hormone primarily increases water reabsorption in the collecting ducts of the kidneys?

<p>Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH) (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Where is Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH) synthesized in the body?

<p>Hypothalamus (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does aldosterone primarily contribute to the regulation of blood pressure?

<p>By increasing sodium reabsorption, thus increasing blood volume (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following conditions would MOST directly stimulate the secretion of aldosterone?

<p>Decreased blood pressure (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does ADH secretion typically respond to a state of overhydration in the body?

<p>ADH secretion decreases to excrete more water (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a common symptom associated with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?

<p>Fatigue and swelling (edema) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Severe dehydration is a potential cause of which type of kidney condition?

<p>Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Intense pain in the back or side, often radiating to the groin, is most characteristic of which kidney-related condition?

<p>Kidney stones (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Glomerulonephritis is primarily characterized by:

<p>Inflammation of the glomeruli (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Over time, kidney diseases can significantly increase the risk of developing which systemic health complication?

<p>Cardiovascular diseases (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following lifestyle changes is MOST beneficial in preventing kidney diseases?

<p>Maintaining healthy blood pressure and blood sugar levels (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a healthy nephron, which substance is LEAST likely to be found in significant amounts in the glomerular filtrate?

<p>Red blood cells (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If the afferent arteriole constricts, reducing blood flow to the glomerulus, what immediate effect would this have on the glomerular filtration rate (GFR)?

<p>GFR would decrease (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is experiencing metabolic acidosis. Which renal response would be expected to help restore blood pH balance?

<p>Increased secretion of hydrogen ions (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During severe salt deficit, which hormonal response is MOST immediate and effective in restoring sodium balance?

<p>Increased secretion of Aldosterone (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient has a tumor in the adrenal cortex causing excessive aldosterone secretion. Which electrolyte imbalance is MOST likely to be observed?

<p>Hypernatremia and hypokalemia (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which transport mechanism is primarily responsible for glucose reabsorption in the proximal convoluted tubule (PCT)?

<p>Secondary active transport (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a substance is freely filtered, completely reabsorbed in the PCT, and not secreted, its renal clearance rate would be approximately:

<p>Zero (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the ascending limb of the Loop of Henle, which process is crucial for establishing the medullary osmotic gradient necessary for urine concentration?

<p>Sodium and chloride reabsorption (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient presents with polyuria and polydipsia; lab results show dilute urine despite elevated blood glucose. Which hormone deficiency is MOST likely contributing to these symptoms?

<p>Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH) (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Excretion

The biological process of eliminating metabolic waste products from an organism.

Lungs' Role in Excretion

Removes carbon dioxide and water vapor from the body.

Skin's Role in Excretion

Excretes water, mineral salts, and small amounts of urea through sweat.

Liver's Role in Excretion

Involved in metabolism, detoxification, and excretion of urea and bile pigments.

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Alimentary Canal's Role

Excretes bile pigments and excess mineral salts via feces.

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Kidneys' Role in Excretion

Filter blood, remove wastes, and balance fluids, excreting urea, mineral salts, and water.

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Bladder's Role in Excretion

Stores urine excreted by the kidneys until it is expelled from the body.

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Urinary System Function

Maintains chemical balance by waste removal, and regulates water and electrolyte levels.

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Components of the Urinary System

Kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra.

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Kidney's Filtration Function

Filter blood, removing waste products.

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Kidney's Reabsorption Function

Retrieving essential nutrients and water from the filtrate back into the bloodstream.

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Kidney's Secretion Function

Adding additional wastes from the blood into the filtrate.

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Kidney's Excretion Function

Discharging the processed filtrate as urine.

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Nephron

The kidney's microscopic functional unit where filtration, reabsorption, and secretion occur.

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Glomerulus

A network of capillaries in the Bowman's capsule where filtration occurs.

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Loop of Henle Function

Important in osmoregulation and affects urine concentration.

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Reabsorption in PCT

Essential substances and water are reabsorbed into the bloodstream.

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Tubular Secretion in DCT

Additional unwanted substances are added to the filtrate from the blood.

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Urine Formation in Collecting Duct

Final adjustments determine the composition of urine.

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Osmoregulation

Manages the body’s water balance.

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pH Control in Urinary System

Regulates the acidity of body fluids.

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ADH and Aldosterone

ADH increases water reabsorption, decreasing urine output; aldosterone increases sodium reabsorption, increasing water retention and maintaining blood pressure.

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ADH (Antidiuretic Hormone)

Hormone synthesized in the hypothalamus and secreted by the pituitary gland to help the body retain water.

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Aldosterone

Hormone produced in the adrenal cortex; regulates salt levels in the blood.

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Response to Dehydration

Detected by osmoreceptors in the hypothalamus triggering ADH secretion to conserve water.

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Response to High Salt Levels

Decreased aldosterone production reduces sodium reabsorption.

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Homeostasis

Refers to the body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes.

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Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

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

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Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)

A sudden reduction in kidney function, often due to severe dehydration, injury, or reactions to medications.

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Kidney Stones

Hard deposits of minerals and salts that form in the kidneys, causing severe pain when passing through the urinary tract.

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Glomerulonephritis

Inflammation of the glomeruli, the tiny filters in the kidneys.

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Lifestyle Changes for Kidney Health

Managing blood pressure and blood sugar levels, staying hydrated, and avoiding smoking and excessive medication use.

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Regular Monitoring for Kidney Health

Blood and urine tests can help manage kidney diseases and prevent progression to more severe stages.

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Lungs' Excretory Function

The lungs excrete carbon dioxide to maintain blood pH and prevent acidosis.

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Skin's Temperature Regulation

The skin regulates body temperature by excreting sweat, which contains salts and small waste molecules.

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Liver's Role in Detoxification

The liver processes toxins and prepares waste products for safer elimination.

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Colon's Excretory Role

The colon removes indigestible substances and waste products from the liver through feces.

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Kidneys' Filtration and Regulation

Kidneys filter blood to remove excess ions, regulating blood pressure, electrolytes, and acid-base levels.

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Bladder's Storage Function

The bladder stores urine, allowing controlled elimination of liquid waste.

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Kidney Location and Protection

Kidneys are positioned behind the peritoneum, protected by fat and a capsule; supplied by renal arteries and veins.

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Ultrafiltration in Bowman's Capsule

The Bowman's capsule collects filtrate pushed out of the glomerulus via blood pressure (ultrafiltration).

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Detection of Imbalance

Detected by the kidneys, triggering hormone responses to restore normal levels.

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Low Water Levels

Promotes water reabsorption.

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High Salt Levels

Reduces sodium reabsorption.

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Kidney Disease

Early detection via blood and urine tests and manage kidney diseases through lifestyle changes.

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Excretory Organs

Organs that eliminate metabolic waste products from the body.

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Deamination

Process used by the liver where excess amino acids are broken down, forming urea.

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Urea

The main nitrogenous waste produced from the deamination of amino acids in the liver.

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Bile Pigments

A waste product formed from the breakdown of hemoglobin in the liver.

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Acidosis

Excessive acidity in the blood and body tissues.

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Retroperitoneal

Located behind the peritoneum.

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Kidney Cortex

Outer region of the kidney, containing the glomeruli and convoluted tubules.

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Kidney Medulla

Inner region of the kidney; contains the loop of Henle and collecting ducts.

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Renal Pelvis

Central collecting region of the kidney that channels urine to the ureter.

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Ultrafiltration

Passive filtration process in Bowman's capsule driven by blood pressure.

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Osmoreceptors

Sensing elements in the hypothalamus that detect changes in osmotic pressure.

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Edema

Fluid retention causing swelling.

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Dialysis

A procedure to filter blood when the kidneys fail.

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kidney failure

Failure of kidneys to adequately filter waste from the blood.

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Study Notes

  • Excretion refers to the biological process of eliminating metabolic waste to maintain internal stability and prevent harm from toxic accumulation.

Excretory Organs

  • The lungs, skin, liver, alimentary canal (gut), kidneys, and bladder are the key organs involved in excretion in humans.
  • Each organ plays a specialized role contributing to the body's overall homeostasis.

Lungs

  • The lungs primarily excrete carbon dioxide (CO2) and water vapor.
  • Carbon dioxide and water vapor originate from cellular respiration.
  • Exhaling carbon dioxide is crucial for maintaining blood pH and preventing acidosis.

Skin

  • The skin excretes water, mineral salts, and small amounts of urea through sweat glands.
  • Mineral salts and urea are derived from the blood.
  • Sweat evaporation regulates body temperature while excreting excess salts and small waste molecules.

Liver

  • The liver excretes urea and bile pigments.
  • Urea is produced through the deamination of excess amino acids.
  • Bile pigments arise from the breakdown of hemoglobin.
  • The liver processes toxins and waste products, preparing them for safer elimination.

Alimentary Canal (Gut)

  • The colon, a part of the alimentary canal, excretes bile pigments and excess mineral salts.
  • Bile, produced in the liver, delivers these components to the colon.
  • The alimentary canal removes indigestible substances and waste products from the liver through feces.

Kidneys

  • The kidneys excrete urea, mineral salts, and water.
  • Urea originates from the liver, where amino acids are deaminated.
  • The kidneys regulate mineral salts and water based on dietary intake and physiological needs.
  • They filter blood to remove excess ions, water, and nitrogenous wastes, crucial for balancing blood pressure, electrolytes, and acid-base levels.

Bladder

  • The bladder stores urine excreted by the kidneys until it is expelled.
  • The bladder's primary role is the storage and periodic removal of urine, which contains metabolic wastes.
  • The bladder acts as a reservoir for urine, allowing controlled and convenient elimination of liquid waste.

Organ Roles

  • Lungs: Crucial for maintaining blood pH and preventing acidosis by exhaling carbon dioxide.
  • Skin: Regulates body temperature through sweat evaporation and excretes excess salts and small waste molecules.
  • Liver: Processes toxins and waste products, preparing them for elimination.
  • Alimentary Canal: Eliminates indigestible substances and waste products from the liver through feces.
  • Kidneys: Filter blood to remove excess ions, water, and nitrogenous wastes, balancing blood pressure, electrolytes, and acid-base levels.
  • Bladder: Serves as a reservoir for urine, providing controlled elimination of liquid waste.

Urinary System Overview

  • The urinary system includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra.
  • Osmoregulation, excretion of nitrogenous wastes, pH regulation, and the regulation of salt concentration in body fluids are the key functions.

Components of the Urinary System

  • Kidneys: Filter blood.
  • Ureters: Transport urine from the kidneys to the bladder.
  • Bladder: Stores urine until expulsion.
  • Urethra: Allows urine to exit the body.
  • The kidneys are positioned retroperitoneally on either side of the spine, protected by adipose tissue and a renal capsule.
  • The kidneys receive oxygen-rich and waste-laden blood via the renal arteries.
  • Filtered, deoxygenated blood returns to the heart through the renal veins.

Kidney Structure and Function

  • Cortex, medulla, and renal pelvis form the kidney.
  • Blood is received via renal arteries, and filtered blood is returned to the heart through the renal veins.
  • The kidneys filter blood, remove waste, reabsorb nutrients, secrete additional wastes, and excrete processed filtrate as urine.
  • A renal capsule encloses each kidney, protecting its structure and function.

Nephron

  • The nephron, about 1 million per kidney, is the kidney's functional unit.
  • Each nephron contains a glomerulus, Bowman's capsule, proximal convoluted tubule (PCT), Loop of Henle, distal convoluted tubule (DCT), and collecting duct.
  • Glomerulus: Filtration occurs here within the Bowman's capsule.
  • Bowman's Capsule: Collects filtrate.
  • PCT: Substantial reabsorption of water, ions, and organic nutrients occurs here.
  • Loop of Henle: Concentrates urine.
  • DCT: Balances ion and water levels.
  • Collecting Duct: Delivers urine to the renal pelvis from multiple nephrons.

Nephron Processes

  • Ultrafiltration: Blood pressure drives water and solutes out of the blood into the nephron at the Bowman's capsule.
  • Reabsorption: Substances and water are reabsorbed into the bloodstream, primarily in the PCT.
  • Tubular Secretion: Additional unwanted substances are added to the filtrate from the blood in the DCT.
  • Urine Formation: Final adjustments occur in the collecting duct; urine is stored in the bladder.

Regulation and Homeostasis

  • Osmoregulation manages water balance.
  • The urinary system regulates pH by reabsorbing or secreting hydrogen and bicarbonate ions.
  • Excretion of urea and salts removes metabolic waste and excess substances.
  • The lungs excrete carbon dioxide and water vapor.
  • The liver metabolizes waste for excretion.
  • The skin eliminates salts and urea through sweat.

Osmoregulation and Hormones

  • Homeostasis is the body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes.
  • The kidneys regulate water and salt levels with the help of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) and aldosterone.
  • Osmoregulation balances water and salt levels in blood and tissue fluids, managed by ADH and aldosterone.

Role of ADH

  • ADH is produced in the hypothalamus and secreted by the pituitary gland.
  • It increases water reabsorption in the kidneys by making the collecting ducts and distal convoluted tubules more permeable to water.
  • Dehydration increases ADH secretion, leading to water conservation and concentrated urine.
  • Overhydration decreases ADH secretion, producing dilute urine.

Role of Aldosterone

  • Aldosterone is produced in the adrenal cortex.
  • It increases sodium ion reabsorption and potassium ion secretion in the nephron.
  • Aldosterone secretion is stimulated by increased blood potassium or decreased sodium levels and is influenced by the renin-angiotensin system when blood pressure is low.
  • It influences water retention through sodium reabsorption, impacting blood volume and blood pressure.

Kidney Disease Introduction

  • Kidney diseases impair the kidneys’ ability to filter blood, remove waste, balance electrolytes, and regulate blood pressure.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

  • Overview: a long-term condition that causes gradual kidney function loss.
  • Diabetes, hypertension, and other health issues can cause it.
  • Symptoms: Fatigue, swelling (edema), and changes in urine output.
  • If untreated, it progresses to kidney failure, which requires dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)

  • Overview: a sudden reduction in kidney function attributed to severe dehydration, injury, or reaction to certain medications.
  • Symptoms: Sudden decrease in urine output, swelling, and confusion.
  • Treatment: Requires immediate medical intervention.
  • Severe cases may lead to lasting damage.

Kidney Stones

  • Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form in the kidneys.
  • Symptoms: Intense pain in the back or side, blood in urine, and nausea.
  • Prevention/Treatment: Staying hydrated and, in some cases, surgical removal or shock wave therapy to break up stones.

Glomerulonephritis

  • Overview: Is the inflammation of the glomeruli.
  • Can be acute or chronic, often resulting from infections, autoimmune diseases, or other systemic conditions.
  • Symptoms: Blood in urine, high blood pressure, and swelling.
  • Treatment: May include medications to reduce inflammation and control blood pressure, depending on the underlying cause.

Impact on the Body

  • Kidney diseases may cause waste accumulation, fluid imbalances, and electrolyte disturbances.
  • Cardiovascular diseases, anemia, and bone disorders risks may increase over time.

Prevention and Management

  • Lifestyle Changes: Following a healthy diet, managing blood pressure and blood sugar levels, staying hydrated, and avoiding smoking and excessive medication use can prevent kidney damage.
  • Regular Monitoring: Detecting kidney diseases early through regular blood and urine tests may prevent progression to more severe stages.

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