Which are the triangular-shaped divisions of the medulla within the kidneys called?

Which are the triangular-shaped divisions of the medulla within the kidneys called?

• A. Renal columns
• B. Glomeruli
• C. Renal pyramids
• D. Nephrons

Answer: (C)

The triangular-shaped divisions of the medulla are the renal pyramids. In the kidney, the medulla is organized into these cone- or pyramid-shaped masses with bases facing the cortex and tips (apices) pointing toward the renal pelvis. They’re separated from each other by renal columns, which are extensions of cortical tissue. Inside each pyramid, urine from the nephrons drains through collecting ducts toward the apex, then into a minor calyx. This structure distinguishes them from glomeruli (tiny filtration units in the cortex), nephrons (the functional units of the kidney), and renal columns (the cortical tissue between pyramids).

The triangular-shaped divisions of the medulla are the renal pyramids. In the kidney, the medulla is organized into these cone- or pyramid-shaped masses with bases facing the cortex and tips (apices) pointing toward the renal pelvis. They’re separated from each other by renal columns, which are extensions of cortical tissue. Inside each pyramid, urine from the nephrons drains through collecting ducts toward the apex, then into a minor calyx. This structure distinguishes them from glomeruli (tiny filtration units in the cortex), nephrons (the functional units of the kidney), and renal columns (the cortical tissue between pyramids).