THE ANATOMICAL STRUCTURE AND FUNCTIONAL ORGANIZATION OF THE HUMAN KIDNEY
Keywords:
kidney anatomy, nephron, renal cortex, renal medulla, renal circulation, functional anatomy.Abstract
The human kidney is a paired excretory organ essential for maintaining fluid balance, electrolyte homeostasis, and the elimination of metabolic waste. Each kidney demonstrates a highly specialized anatomical structure that supports its role in filtration, secretion, and reabsorption. This article reviews the gross and microscopic anatomy of the kidney, its vascular supply, and its functional correlations. Emphasis is placed on the clinical importance of renal anatomy for surgery, nephrology, and transplantation.
References
Standring S. Gray’s Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. 42nd ed. Elsevier; 2020.
Moore KL, Dalley AF, Agur AMR. Clinically Oriented Anatomy. 9th ed. Wolters Kluwer; 2023.
Netter FH. Atlas of Human Anatomy. 8th ed. Elsevier; 2022.
Satyapal KS, et al. The renal arteries: a review of variations and clinical relevance. Clin Anat. 2001;14(1):42–47.
Osman Y, et al. Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy: anatomical considerations and clinical outcomes. J Urol. 2010;184(2):491–497.
Chevalier RL. Developmental renal anomalies and clinical implications. Pediatr Nephrol. 2021;36(3):529–541.
