ANATOMY OF THE KIDNEY

In order to understand the relationship between anemia and chronic kidney disease, it is important to understand the anatomy of the kidneys and how they work. The kidneys are the body's primary filtering system, responsible for processing and eliminating wastes from the bloodstream such as excess salts and proteins.

The kidneys are bean-shaped organs with a concave side that faces inwards (medially). The outer portion of the kidney is called the renal cortex. Deep within the renal cortex is the renal medulla, which is divided into 10-20 renal pyramids. The tip of each pyramid empties into a minor calyx. Several of these minor calyces will join together to empty into a major calyx. The major calyces then empty into the renal pelvis, which transports urine through the ureter and into the bladder where it can be excreted.

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