Question

Explain internal structure of kidney with the help of suitable diagram.

Answer 1

L.S. of kidney :
Each kideney is covered by semi-liquid fatty tissue called adipose capsule. Outer covering of this capsule is made up of tough fibrous connective tissue called renal fascia. In L.S., the kidney shows two regions within the capsule. Outer, renal cortex and inner, renal medulla.

Renal cortex: It is the outer region of kidney.
Renal medulla: It is lighter in color and divided into number of pyramidal regions called renal pyramids (6 to 20).
Renal pyramid- Each pyramid has a wide base attached to the cortex and narrow apex directed towards an inner space called renal papillae. Pyramids show striations that converge towards the apex.
Columns of Bertini: The renal column of Bertini is the part of the cortex continued inside medulla between pyramids.
Renal sinus/pelvis: The large funnel shaped space of the calyx is continued into pelvis situated near the hilus. The ureter is connected into pelvis situated near the hilus. The ureter is connected to the pelvis. This hollow region of the kidney is filled with its secretion i.e. the urine in the natural state. The edge of the pelvis contains cup like extensions called major and minor calyces. Each minor calyx receives urine from collecting ducts and about 7-8 collecting ducts join to form duct of Bellini toward papilla of pyramid.