Urinary System Basics
This organ removes metabolic waste and helps maintain homeostasis
kidney
The outer layer of the kidney.
cortex
The functional unit of the kidney.
nephron
The process of removing waste from blood.
filtration
Excessive drinking.
polydipsia
These tubes carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder
ureters
The inner portion of the kidney
medulla
Where filtration of blood begins.
glomerulus
The process of returning water and nutrients back to the blood.
reabsorption
Excessive urination.
polyuria
This structure stores urine until it is excreted
bladder
The area where urine collects before entering the ureter.
renal pelvis
This structure surrounds the glomerulus.
Bowman’s capsule
This tool is used to measure urine specific gravity.
refractometer
A buildup of waste products in the blood.
azotemia
This tube carries urine out of the body
urethra
This vessel brings blood INTO the kidney.
renal artery
This part of the nephron concentrates urine by reabsorbing water.
Loop of Henle
Normal, concentrated urine is called this.
hypertonic
A key blood value used to measure kidney function.
creatinine
This system helps regulate water, salts, and blood pressure
urinary system
This vessel carries blood AWAY from the kidney.
renal vein
Blood enters the nephron through this vessel.
afferent arteriole
Urine that indicates kidney failure (not concentrated or diluted).
isosthenuric
This condition occurs when a blockage prevents urine from leaving the body.
post-renal azotemia