The kidneys have vital functions in three different areas:
- Excretion of metabolic wastes and toxins
- Regulation of body water, electrolyte and acid/base balance
- Production/activation of hormones involved in the production of erythrocytes, Ca ++ metabolism, and regulation of blood pressure and blood volume.
For students early in the education the key topics within the basic medical sciences are reviewed. Later in medical school it is advisable to approach the material through the clinical cases that will illuminate the central pathophysiological principles you encounter in clinical situations.
Renal structure, function and clinic are all divided into the following main topics:
- Glomeruli and blood vessels
- Tubules and interstitium