Understanding the kidneys and CKD – in 4 diagrams and one video

How the kidneys work

Understanding the kidneys and CKD – in 4 diagrams and one video

Diagram 1: where are the kidneys?

 

The renal system | Basicmedical Key

 

Diagram 2: how do the kidneys fit into the urinary tract?
Stones in the Urinary Tract - Kidney and Urinary Tract Disorders - MSD Manual Consumer Version

 

Diagram 3: how the kidney works – filtration (in glomerulus) and reabsorption (tubule)

Illustration shows the nephron, a tube-like structure that begins in the kidney cortex. Here, arterioles converge in a bulb-like structure called the glomerulus, which is partly surrounded by a Bowman’s capsule. Afferent arterioles enter the glomerulus, and efferent arterioles leave. The glomerulus empties into the proximal convoluted tubule. A long loop, called the loop of Henle, extends from the proximal convoluted tubule to the inner medulla of the kidney, and then back out to the cortex. There, the loop of Henle joins a distal convoluted tubule. The distal convoluted tubule joins a collecting duct, which travels from the medulla back into the cortex, toward the center of the kidney. Eventually, the contents of the renal pyramid empty into the renal pelvis, and then the ureter.

Diagram 4: how CKD is diagnosed – by eGFR and classified into 5 stages

Courtesy of UKKA

Video: how do the kidneys work?


Summary

We have described the kidney and CKD in 4 diagrams and one video. We hope you have found it helpful.

Last Reviewed on 22 June 2024

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