KIDNEY

Definition of KIDNEY

KIDNEY Noun

Kidney is a noun referring to a vital organ in vertebrates that is responsible for filtering waste products from the blood and excreting them in the form of urine. Here’s an overview of the concept of a kidney:

A kidney is a pair of bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine, below the rib cage. They play a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis by filtering blood, removing waste products, regulating electrolyte balance, and producing hormones essential for red blood cell production and blood pressure regulation.

Anatomy and Function: Each kidney is composed of millions of nephrons, the functional units responsible for filtering blood and producing urine. Blood enters the kidneys through the renal arteries, where it is filtered to remove waste products and excess substances. The purified blood exits the kidneys through the renal veins, while urine is collected in the renal pelvis and transported to the bladder for excretion.

Filtration and Excretion: The kidneys filter approximately 120 to 150 quarts of blood each day, producing about 1 to 2 quarts of urine. This urine contains waste products such as urea, creatinine, and excess salts and water. The process of filtration and excretion helps maintain the body’s internal environment by removing toxins and regulating fluid and electrolyte balance.

Hormone Production: In addition to their role in filtration and excretion, the kidneys produce hormones such as erythropoietin, which stimulates the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow, and renin, which helps regulate blood pressure by controlling fluid and electrolyte balance.

Clinical Significance: Disorders of the kidneys, such as chronic kidney disease, kidney stones, and urinary tract infections, can have significant health implications and may require medical intervention. Kidney function can be assessed through various tests, including blood tests, urine tests, and imaging studies, to diagnose and manage kidney-related conditions.

The kidneys are vital organs responsible for filtering waste products from the blood and regulating various aspects of bodily function. Their intricate structure and multifaceted functions make them essential for maintaining overall health and well-being. Understanding the anatomy and function of the kidneys is crucial for recognizing the importance of kidney health and preventing or managing kidney-related disorders.

KIDNEY in a sentence

  • He experienced excruciating pain in his kidney and sought medical attention.
  • The surgeon removed the diseased kidney during the operation.
  • She donated one of her kidneys to her brother who was in need of a transplant.
  • The doctor ordered an ultrasound to check for any abnormalities in the kidney.
  • The kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste products from the blood.
  • He suffered from a kidney infection and had to take antibiotics.
  • The kidney beans added a hearty texture to the chili.
  • The patient underwent dialysis to help support kidney function.

Etymology of KIDNEY

The term kidney has its etymological origins in the Old English word “cwið,” which evolved into “kidenē” in Middle English. It is believed to have derived from the Old English word “cwidu,” meaning “cyst” or “tumor.” Here’s the breakdown:

  • Old English (cwið): Originating from the Old English word “cwið,” referring to “cyst” or “tumor.”
  • Middle English (kidenē): Evolving from Old English to Middle English as “kidenē.”

Therefore, “kidney” initially referred to a cyst or tumor-like structure.

In modern usage, “kidney” refers to a vital organ in the body responsible for filtering waste products from the blood to form urine, regulating electrolyte balance, and maintaining fluid balance. The kidneys play a crucial role in excretion, maintaining homeostasis, and supporting overall health and well-being.

Synonyms

  • Renal organ
  • Nephron
  • Kidney bean
  • Organ
  • Urinary organ
  • Excretory organ
  • Vital organ
  • Filtration organ

Antonyms

  • Cardiac
  • Pulmonary
  • Muscular
  • Neural
  • Skeletal
  • Digestive
  • Endocrine
  • Hepatic

Related

  • Nephrology
  • Urology
  • Dialysis
  • Glomerulus
  • Renal artery
  • Renal vein
  • Renal pelvis
  • Nephritis

🌐 🇬🇧 KIDNEY in other languages

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