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Urinary System Flashcards

Focuses on kidney and urinary tract anatomy, common conditions like UTIs and kidney stones, and procedures such as dialysis and urinalysis. (114 cards)

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1
Q

Define:

Kidney

A

A pair of bean-shaped organs that filter blood to produce urine, regulate electrolyte balance, and maintain fluid homeostasis.

The doctor explained that the kidney functions to remove waste products from the blood.

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2
Q

Define:

Nephron

A

The functional unit of the kidney responsible for filtering blood and forming urine, consisting of a renal corpuscle and a renal tubule.

Each nephron plays a crucial role in maintaining the body’s fluid and electrolyte balance.

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3
Q

Define:

Glomerulus

A

A network of capillaries located within the Bowman’s capsule of the nephron, where blood filtration begins.

The blood enters the glomerulus, where waste products are filtered into the nephron.

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4
Q

Define:

Bowman’s capsule

A

The double-walled structure surrounding the glomerulus in the nephron, which collects the filtrate from the blood.

Filtrate flows from the Bowman’s capsule into the renal tubule for further processing.

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5
Q

Define:

Renal cortex

A

The outer region of the kidney that contains the renal corpuscles and proximal and distal convoluted tubules of nephrons.

The renal cortex is where the filtration of blood begins in the kidneys.

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6
Q

Define:

Renal medulla

A

The inner region of the kidney that contains the renal pyramids and collecting ducts, involved in urine concentration.

The renal medulla is critical for the concentration of urine before it is excreted.

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7
Q

Define:

Renal pelvis

A

The funnel-shaped structure in the kidney that collects urine from the collecting ducts and channels it into the ureter.

Urine drains into the renal pelvis before moving to the bladder.

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8
Q

Define:

Renal artery

A

The blood vessel that carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the kidneys for filtration.

The renal artery supplies the kidneys with the blood needed for filtration.

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9
Q

Define:

Renal vein

A

The blood vessel that carries deoxygenated blood away from the kidneys back to the heart after filtration.

After filtration, blood exits the kidney through the renal vein.

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10
Q

Define:

Ureter

A

A muscular tube that transports urine from the renal pelvis of the kidney to the urinary bladder.

The ureter plays a vital role in directing urine from the kidneys to the bladder.

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11
Q

Define:

Urinary bladder

A

A hollow muscular organ that stores urine until it is excreted from the body.

The patient felt the urge to urinate as the urinary bladder filled with urine.

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12
Q

Define:

Urethra

A

The tube that carries urine from the urinary bladder to the outside of the body during urination.

The urethra is the final pathway for urine to exit the body.

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13
Q

Define:

Calyx (major and minor)

A

Cup-shaped structures in the kidney that collect urine from the renal pyramids and channel it to the renal pelvis; major calyces are formed from minor calyces.

Urine flows from the renal pyramids into the calyx before entering the renal pelvis.

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14
Q

Define:

Collecting duct

A

The segment of the nephron that collects urine from multiple nephrons and transports it to the renal pelvis, playing a key role in water reabsorption.

The collecting duct is essential for concentrating urine based on the body’s hydration levels.

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15
Q

Define:

Loop of Henle

A

A U-shaped portion of the nephron that extends into the renal medulla, crucial for the concentration of urine and reabsorption of water and salts.

The Loop of Henle enables the kidneys to produce concentrated urine.

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16
Q

Define:

Proximal convoluted tubule

A

The first segment of the renal tubule, where most of the reabsorption of water, ions, and nutrients occurs.

In the proximal convoluted tubule, the majority of filtered glucose is reabsorbed back into the blood.

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17
Q

Define:

Distal convoluted tubule

A

The segment of the renal tubule following the loop of Henle, involved in the selective reabsorption of ions and water, and the secretion of waste products.

The distal convoluted tubule adjusts the composition of urine based on the body’s needs.

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18
Q

Define:

Juxtaglomerular apparatus

A

A specialized structure located at the junction of the afferent arterioles and the distal convoluted tubule, involved in regulating blood pressure and filtration rate.

The juxtaglomerular apparatus releases renin in response to low blood pressure.

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19
Q

Define:

Macula densa

A

A group of specialized cells in the distal convoluted tubule that sense sodium concentration and help regulate glomerular filtration rate.

The macula densa plays a key role in detecting changes in sodium levels in the filtrate.

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20
Q

Define:

Podocyte

A

A specialized cell type in the glomerulus that forms part of the filtration barrier, allowing selective filtration of blood.

Podocytes have foot-like processes that create filtration slits in the glomerular membrane.

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21
Q

Define:

Filtration

A

The process where blood is filtered in the kidneys to remove waste products and excess substances, forming urine.

The kidneys perform filtration to eliminate toxins from the bloodstream.

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22
Q

Define:

Reabsorption

A

The process by which the kidneys reclaim water and essential solutes from the filtrate back into the bloodstream.

During reabsorption, glucose and amino acids are returned to the blood after filtration.

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23
Q

Define:

Secretion

A

The process of transporting substances from the blood into the renal tubules, contributing to urine formation.

Secretion of potassium and hydrogen ions helps regulate blood pH.

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24
Q

Define:

Excretion

A

The elimination of waste products from the body through urine.

The body relies on excretion to remove excess salts and toxins.

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25
# Define: Glomerular filtration rate (GFR)
A measure of **how well the kidneys filter blood**, indicating kidney function. ## Footnote A low *glomerular filtration rate (GFR)* can indicate kidney disease.
26
# Define: Osmoregulation
The process by which the **body regulates water and electrolyte balance** to maintain homeostasis. ## Footnote *Osmoregulation* is crucial for maintaining blood pressure and cellular function.
27
# Define: Antidiuretic hormone (ADH)
A **hormone** that promotes **water reabsorption in the kidneys**, helping to concentrate urine. ## Footnote Increased levels of *antidiuretic hormone (ADH)* can lead to decreased urine output.
28
# Define: Aldosterone
A **hormone** that **regulates sodium and potassium levels**, influencing blood pressure and fluid balance. ## Footnote *Elderly patients with heart failure may have elevated levels of aldosterone.*
29
# Define: Renin
An **enzyme** released by the kidneys that **helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance** through the renin-angiotensin system. ## Footnote *Renin* is secreted in response to low blood pressure or low sodium levels.
30
# Define: Angiotensin
A **peptide hormone** that **constricts blood vessels and increases blood pressure**, part of the renin-angiotensin system. ## Footnote *Angiotensin* II is a potent vasoconstrictor that raises blood pressure.
31
# Define: Erythropoietin
A **hormone** produced by the kidneys that **stimulates red blood cell production** in the bone marrow. ## Footnote *Erythropoietin* levels rise in response to low oxygen levels in the blood.
32
# Define: Urea
A waste product formed from the **breakdown of proteins**, excreted in urine. ## Footnote *Urea* levels in blood can indicate kidney function.
33
# Define: Uric acid
A waste product formed from the **breakdown of purines**, excreted in urine, and can form crystals leading to gout. ## Footnote Elevated *uric acid* levels can cause joint pain and inflammation.
34
# Define: Creatinine
A waste product produced by **muscle metabolism**, commonly measured to assess kidney function. ## Footnote High *creatinine* levels can indicate impaired kidney function.
35
# Define: Ammonia
A **toxic byproduct of protein metabolism** that is converted to urea in the liver and excreted in urine. ## Footnote High levels of *ammonia* can be harmful and indicate liver dysfunction.
36
# Define: Electrolytes
**Minerals** in the body that **carry an electric charge**, essential for various physiological processes, including fluid balance. ## Footnote *Electrolytes* such as sodium and potassium are crucial for nerve function.
37
# Define: Sodium (Na+)
An **essential electrolyte** that helps **regulate fluid balance**, blood pressure, and nerve function. ## Footnote *Elevated sodium (Na+)* levels can lead to hypertension.
38
# Define: Potassium (K+)
An **electrolyte** vital for heart function, muscle contraction, and nerve signaling. ## Footnote Low *potassium (K+)* levels can cause muscle weakness and arrhythmias.
39
# Define: Bicarbonate (HCO3-)
A buffer that helps **maintain acid-base balance in the body** by neutralizing excess acids. ## Footnote *Bicarbonate (HCO3-)* levels are measured to assess metabolic acidosis or alkalosis.
40
# Define: Acid-base balance
The **regulation of the pH levels in the body fluids**, essential for normal cellular function. ## Footnote Disruption in *acid-base balance* can lead to serious health issues.
41
# Define: Urinary tract infection (UTI)
An **infection** that affects any **part of the urinary system**, including the bladder and kidneys, often causing pain and urgency. ## Footnote Symptoms of a *urinary tract infection (UTI)* include burning sensation during urination.
42
# Define: Cystitis
**Inflammation of the bladder**, often caused by infection, leading to pain and frequent urination. ## Footnote *Patients with cystitis* may experience pelvic discomfort and urgency.
43
# Define: Pyelonephritis
A type of **urinary tract infection** that affects the **kidneys**, potentially leading to kidney damage if untreated. ## Footnote *Pyelonephritis* can cause fever and flank pain in affected individuals.
44
# Define: Nephritis
An **inflammation of the kidneys** that can affect their **ability to filter blood**, often caused by infection or autoimmune diseases. ## Footnote *Nephritis* can lead to symptoms like swelling and changes in urine output.
45
# Define: Glomerulonephritis
**Inflammation of the glomeruli** in the kidneys, which can impair kidney function and lead to blood and protein in urine. ## Footnote *Glomerulonephritis* may present with hematuria and edema.
46
# Define: Nephrotic syndrome
A kidney disorder characterized by **excessive protein loss in urine**, leading to swelling and increased cholesterol levels. ## Footnote *Nephrotic syndrome* often results in significant edema and weight gain.
47
# Define: Nephrolithiasis (kidney stones)
The formation of **solid mineral deposits in the kidneys**, which can cause severe pain and urinary obstruction. ## Footnote *Nephrolithiasis* can result in flank pain and hematuria.
48
# Define: Urolithiasis
The presence of **stones in the urinary tract**, which can lead to obstruction and pain. ## Footnote *Urolithiasis* may cause symptoms such as severe abdominal pain and difficulty urinating.
49
# Define: Hydronephrosis
A condition characterized by **swelling of a kidney due to a build-up of urine**, often caused by obstruction. ## Footnote *Hydronephrosis* can lead to kidney damage if not treated promptly.
50
# Define: Polycystic kidney disease
A genetic disorder characterized by the **growth of numerous cysts in the kidneys**, leading to kidney dysfunction. ## Footnote *Polycystic kidney disease* can cause hypertension and abdominal pain.
51
# Define: Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
A **long-term condition** where the **kidneys gradually lose function**, often due to diabetes or hypertension. ## Footnote *Chronic kidney disease (CKD)* can progress to end-stage renal failure.
52
# Define: Acute kidney injury (AKI)
A **sudden decrease in kidney function**, often reversible, caused by factors like dehydration or medication. ## Footnote *Acute kidney injury (AKI)* can occur after major surgery or severe illness.
53
# Define: Renal failure
A condition where the **kidneys lose the ability to filter waste and regulate fluid balance**, leading to potential life-threatening complications. ## Footnote *Renal failure* requires immediate medical intervention to prevent serious health risks.
54
# Define: Interstitial cystitis
A chronic condition characterized by **bladder pain and frequent urination** without a clear infection cause. ## Footnote *Interstitial cystitis* can significantly impact a patient's quality of life.
55
# Define: Urethritis
**Inflammation of the urethra**, often caused by infection, leading to pain and difficulty urinating. ## Footnote *Urethritis* can cause discomfort and a burning sensation during urination.
56
# Define: Proteinuria
The presence of **excess protein in the urine**, often indicating kidney damage or disease. ## Footnote *Proteinuria* can be a sign of glomerular injury in patients with kidney disease.
57
# Define: Hematuria
The presence of **blood in urine**, which can be a sign of various medical conditions, including infections and kidney stones. ## Footnote *Hematuria* should be evaluated promptly to determine the underlying cause.
58
# Define: Dysuria
**Painful or difficult urination**, often associated with urinary tract infections or inflammation. ## Footnote *Dysuria* is a common symptom that prompts patients to seek medical attention.
59
# Define: Nocturia
The **need to wake up during the night to urinate**, which can disrupt sleep and indicate underlying health issues. ## Footnote *Nocturia* is frequently reported by older adults and can affect their quality of life.
60
# Define: Polyuria
The **production of abnormally large volumes of urine**, often associated with diabetes or other medical conditions. ## Footnote *Polyuria* may be a sign of uncontrolled diabetes mellitus.
61
# Define: Oliguria
A **reduced urine output**, often indicating dehydration or kidney dysfunction. ## Footnote *Oliguria* can be a critical sign of acute kidney injury.
62
# Define: Anuria
The **absence of urine production**, which can indicate severe kidney failure or obstruction. ## Footnote *Anuria* is a medical emergency requiring immediate evaluation.
63
# Define: Incontinence
The **inability to control urination**, leading to involuntary leakage of urine. ## Footnote *Incontinence* can significantly impact a person's social and emotional well-being.
64
# Define: Enuresis
**Involuntary urination**, especially during sleep, commonly referred to as bedwetting in children. ## Footnote *Enuresis* can be distressing for both children and their parents.
65
# Define: Azotemia
An **accumulation of nitrogenous waste products** in the blood, often indicative of kidney dysfunction. ## Footnote *Azotemia* can result from acute or chronic kidney disease.
66
# Define: Urinalysis
A laboratory test that **analyzes urine** to detect abnormalities and assess overall health. ## Footnote *Urinalysis* can provide valuable information about kidney function and metabolic disorders.
67
# Define: Dipstick test
A **quick screening test** using a chemically treated strip to **evaluate urine** for various substances. ## Footnote The *dipstick test* can indicate the presence of glucose or protein in the urine.
68
# Define: Microscopic urine examination
A laboratory test that examines **urine under a microscope** to identify cells, crystals, and other components. ## Footnote *Microscopic urine examination* can help diagnose conditions like urinary tract infections.
69
# Define: Culture and sensitivity test
A laboratory test that detects the **presence of bacteria in urine** and determines their sensitivity to antibiotics. ## Footnote *Culture and sensitivity tests* guide appropriate antibiotic treatment for UTIs.
70
# Define: Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
A blood test that measures the **amount of urea nitrogen**, an indicator of kidney function and protein metabolism. ## Footnote Elevated *blood urea nitrogen (BUN)* levels can suggest impaired kidney function.
71
# Define: Serum creatinine test
A blood test that measures the **level of creatinine**, used to assess kidney function. ## Footnote *Serum creatinine test* results can indicate the presence of kidney disease.
72
# Define: Creatinine clearance test
A test that estimates the **kidneys' ability to filter creatinine from the blood**, reflecting overall kidney function. ## Footnote The *creatinine clearance test* is often used to evaluate kidney health.
73
# Define: Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) estimation
A **calculation** used to estimate **kidney function** based on serum creatinine levels, age, gender, and race. ## Footnote *GFR estimation* is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring kidney disease.
74
# Define: 24-hour urine collection
A test that measures **all urine produced in a 24-hour period** to evaluate kidney function and detect abnormalities. ## Footnote *24-hour urine collection* is often used to assess proteinuria.
75
# Define: Urine specific gravity
A measure of the **concentration of solutes in urine**, indicating the kidney's ability to concentrate urine. ## Footnote *Urine specific gravity* can help assess hydration status and kidney function.
76
# Define: Renal ultrasound
A non-invasive imaging test that uses **sound waves to visualize the kidneys and urinary tract**. ## Footnote *Renal ultrasound* can help identify kidney stones or cysts.
77
# Define: CT scan (for kidneys/urinary tract)
A detailed imaging test that uses X-rays to **create cross-sectional images of the kidneys and urinary tract**. ## Footnote A *CT scan* can provide clear images to diagnose kidney abnormalities.
78
# Define: MRI (renal imaging)
An imaging technique that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to **create detailed images of the kidneys and surrounding structures**. ## Footnote *MRI (renal imaging)* is useful for evaluating complex kidney conditions.
79
# Define: Intravenous pyelogram (IVP)
An X-ray exam that uses contrast dye injected into a vein to **visualize the kidneys and urinary tract**. ## Footnote *IVP* helps assess kidney function and detect obstructions.
80
# Define: Cystoscopy
A procedure that uses a thin tube with a camera to **visualize the inside of the bladder and urethra**. ## Footnote *During cystoscopy*, the doctor can identify abnormalities or collect tissue samples.
81
# Define: Voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG)
A **special X-ray test** that visualizes the **bladder and urethra** while the bladder is filled and during urination. ## Footnote *VCUG* is used to evaluate urinary function and detect reflux.
82
# Define: Urodynamic testing
A series of tests to evaluate **how well the bladder and urethra store and release urine**. ## Footnote *Urodynamic testing* can help diagnose causes of incontinence.
83
# Define: Biopsy (renal biopsy)
A procedure to remove a **small sample of kidney tissue for examination** under a microscope to diagnose diseases. ## Footnote *Biopsy (renal biopsy)* is often performed to assess unexplained kidney dysfunction.
84
# Define: Dialysis
A medical treatment that artificially **removes waste products and excess fluid from the blood** when kidneys are not functioning properly. ## Footnote *Dialysis* can be life-saving for patients with acute or chronic renal failure.
85
# Define: Hemodialysis
A type of dialysis that **filters blood through a machine** to remove waste and excess fluids. ## Footnote *Hemodialysis* typically requires three sessions per week to maintain kidney function.
86
# Define: Peritoneal dialysis
A type of dialysis that uses the **lining of the abdominal cavity** to filter waste from the blood. ## Footnote *Peritoneal dialysis* can be performed at home, offering more flexibility for patients.
87
# Define: Catheterization
The **insertion of a catheter** into the bladder to drain urine or for other medical purposes. ## Footnote *Catheterization* may be necessary for patients with urinary retention.
88
# Define: Nephrectomy
**Surgical removal of a kidney**, often performed to treat kidney tumors or severe kidney disease. ## Footnote *Nephrectomy* may be indicated in cases of renal cancer.
89
# Define: Lithotripsy
A non-invasive procedure that uses **shock waves to break up kidney stones** into smaller pieces for easier passage. ## Footnote *Lithotripsy* is often used to treat larger stones that cannot pass on their own.
90
# Define: Stent placement (ureteral stent)
The **insertion of a small tube into the ureter** to keep it open and facilitate urine flow, often used to relieve obstruction. ## Footnote *Stent placement* can help manage urinary obstructions due to stones or tumors.
91
# Define: Bladder irrigation
The process of **flushing the bladder** with a sterile solution to remove debris or prevent infection. ## Footnote *Bladder irrigation* is often performed after surgery or during treatment for infection.
92
# Define: Antibiotics (for UTIs)
Medications used to **treat urinary tract infections** by killing or inhibiting the growth of bacteria. ## Footnote *Antibiotics* are commonly prescribed for patients diagnosed with UTIs.
93
# Define: Diuretics
Medications that **promote the excretion of urine**, often used to manage fluid retention and hypertension. ## Footnote *Diuretics* can help reduce blood pressure by decreasing blood volume.
94
# Define: Immunosuppressive therapy (for nephritis)
Treatment that **suppresses the immune system** to reduce inflammation in the kidneys, often used in autoimmune conditions. ## Footnote *Immunosuppressive therapy* is critical for managing severe nephritis.
95
# Define: ACE inhibitors (for proteinuria/CKD)
Medications that **inhibit the angiotensin-converting enzyme**, helping to lower blood pressure and reduce protein loss in urine. ## Footnote *ACE inhibitors* are commonly prescribed for patients with chronic kidney disease.
96
# Define: Fluid restriction
A **dietary management strategy** that limits fluid intake to prevent overload in patients with kidney or heart conditions. ## Footnote *Fluid restriction* is often necessary for patients with end-stage renal disease.
97
# Define: Electrolyte management
The **monitoring and adjustment of electrolyte levels** in the body, crucial for patients with kidney dysfunction. ## Footnote *Electrolyte management* is essential for maintaining heart and muscle function.
98
# Define: Kidney transplant
A surgical procedure to **replace a diseased kidney** with a healthy kidney from a donor. ## Footnote *Kidney transplant* can significantly improve the quality of life for patients with end-stage renal failure.
99
# Define: Foley catheter
A **flexible tube** inserted into the bladder to **drain urine**, often used for patients who cannot urinate normally. ## Footnote *Foley catheters* are commonly used in hospitals for short-term urinary management.
100
# Define: Micturition
The **act of urination**, involving the expulsion of urine from the bladder through the urethra. ## Footnote *Micturition* is a complex process controlled by the nervous system.
101
# Define: Urination
The process of **discharging urine from the urinary bladder** through the urethra. ## Footnote *Urination* is a vital bodily function for waste elimination.
102
# Define: Retention (urinary retention)
The **inability to completely empty the bladder**, leading to discomfort and potential complications. ## Footnote *Urinary retention* can result from obstructions or nerve problems.
103
# Define: Residual urine
The amount of **urine left in the bladder after urination**, which can indicate urinary retention issues. ## Footnote *Residual urine* may need to be measured to assess bladder function.
104
# Define: Urge (urinary urgency)
A **sudden, strong need to urinate**, often difficult to control, which can be a symptom of various conditions. ## Footnote *Urinary urgency* is a common complaint among patients with bladder disorders.
105
# Define: Frequency (urinary frequency)
The condition of **needing to urinate more often than normal**, which can indicate underlying health issues. ## Footnote *Urinary frequency* can be a sign of a urinary tract infection or bladder irritation.
106
# Define: Stricture (urethral stricture)
A **narrowing of the urethra** that can obstruct urine flow, often caused by injury or infection. ## Footnote *Urethral stricture* may require surgical intervention to restore normal urine flow.
107
# Define: Obstruction (urinary obstruction)
A **blockage in the urinary tract** that prevents normal urine flow, potentially leading to kidney damage. ## Footnote *Urinary obstruction* can cause severe pain and requires prompt medical attention.
108
# Define: Reflux (vesicoureteral reflux)
A condition where **urine flows backward** from the bladder into the ureters or kidneys, increasing the risk of infections. ## Footnote *Vesicoureteral reflux* is often diagnosed in children with recurrent UTIs.
109
# Define: Crystalluria
The **presence of crystals in urine**, which can indicate underlying metabolic disorders or kidney stones. ## Footnote *Crystalluria* may be detected during a urinalysis.
110
# Define: Casts (urinary casts)
**Molded structures** formed in the renal tubules that can **indicate various kidney diseases** when found in urine. ## Footnote *Urinary casts* can help diagnose conditions like glomerulonephritis.
111
# Define: Bacteriuria
The presence of **bacteria in urine**, which can indicate a urinary tract infection or contamination. ## Footnote *Bacteriuria* is often confirmed through a urine culture.
112
# Define: Pyuria
The presence of **pus in urine**, indicating infection or inflammation in the urinary tract. ## Footnote *Pyuria* is commonly associated with urinary tract infections.
113
# Define: Nitrites (urine nitrites)
**Compounds** that can be found in urine when **bacteria convert nitrates to nitrites**, often indicating a urinary tract infection. ## Footnote *Urine nitrites* are a common finding in patients with UTIs.
114
# Define: Leukocyte esterase
An **enzyme released by white blood cells** that can be detected in urine, indicating infection or inflammation. ## Footnote *Leukocyte esterase* is often tested for in cases of suspected urinary tract infections.

Medical Terminology (16 decks)

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