The Renal System: Detailed Anatomy and Physiology

Anatomy of the Kidney The kidneys are a pair of bean-shaped organs located in the posterior abdominal cavity, responsible for filtering blood, excreting waste, and maintaining the body’s electrolyte balance. Each kidney plays a critical role in the urinary system and overall homeostasis. the kidneys are 2 in number. 1. Location and Position:- Location:- The … Read more

Kidney Stones (Renal Calculi or Nephrolithiasis)

Definition Kidney stones, also known as renal calculi or nephrolithiasis, are hard deposits composed of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. These stones develop when certain substances in the urine—such as calcium, oxalate, uric acid, or cystine—become highly concentrated and crystallize. As these crystals grow, they can aggregate to form larger stones. Pathophysiology … Read more

Kidney Transplantation

Definition Kidney transplantation is a surgical procedure where a healthy kidney from a living or deceased donor is implanted into a patient with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or severe chronic kidney disease (CKD). Indications for Kidney Transplantation End-stage renal Disease (ESRD):- When kidney function is severely impaired, often requiring dialysis or transplantation for survival. Chronic … Read more

Renal Failure | AKI | CKD

Definition Renal failure is a condition where the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste products and excess fluids from the blood effectively. This results in the accumulation of toxins in the body, leading to severe health complications. Types of Renal Failure Acute Renal Failure (ARF):- Definition:- A sudden decline in kidney function, typically occurring … Read more

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)

Definition Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder characterized by the development of numerous fluid-filled cysts in the kidneys, leading to progressive kidney enlargement and impaired kidney function. Types of PKD Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD):- Overview:- Also known as Adult Polycystic Kidney Disease, ADPKD is the most common type of PKD, responsible for … Read more

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) or Cystitis

Definition Urinary Tract Infection (UTI):- is an infection that occurs in any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Most infections involve the lower urinary tract, particularly the bladder (cystitis) and the urethra (urethritis). Cystitis:- Cystitis specifically refers to the inflammation or infection of the bladder, typically caused by bacteria. … Read more

Glomerulonephritis

Definition Glomerulonephritis is a group of diseases that cause inflammation of the tiny filtering units in the kidneys known as glomeruli. This inflammation impairs the kidneys’ ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood. Pathophysiology Immune System Attack:- In glomerulonephritis, the immune system mistakenly targets the glomeruli, leading to inflammation and damage. This … Read more

Nephrotic Syndrome

Definition Nephrotic Syndrome is a condition when the kidneys leak large amounts of protein into the urine. This happens because of damage to the kidney’s glomeruli, which are responsible for filtering blood. Pathophysiology Glomerular Damage:- The glomeruli are responsible for filtering blood, and retaining essential proteins while allowing waste and excess fluids to pass into … Read more

Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy/Hyperplasia (BPH)

Definition Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy(increased size of cells), also known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (increased number of cells), is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. The prostate is a small, walnut-sized gland in males that surrounds the urethra and plays a role in producing seminal fluid. As men age, the prostate may grow larger, leading … Read more

Dialysis: Detailed Insights and Deep Knowledge

1. Introduction to Dialysis Dialysis is a life-saving treatment that mimics the function of the kidneys in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or acute kidney injury (AKI). It involves the removal of waste products, excess fluids, and toxins from the blood when the kidneys can no longer perform these functions effectively. Indications for Dialysis … Read more