Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

25. The Urinary System

Renal Physiology Step 1: Glomerular Filtration

Anatomy & Physiology

25. The Urinary System

Renal Physiology Step 1: Glomerular Filtration

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5:10 minutes

Problem 18

Textbook Question

Describe the changes that occur in kidney and bladder anatomy and physiology in old age.

Verified step by step guidance

Begin by identifying the key anatomical changes in the kidneys that occur with aging, such as a decrease in kidney size and a reduction in the number of functional nephrons.

Explain the physiological impact of these anatomical changes, including a decline in glomerular filtration rate (GFR), which affects the kidney's ability to filter blood efficiently.

Describe changes in the bladder, including decreased bladder capacity and increased residual urine volume, which can lead to more frequent urination and urgency.

Discuss the weakening of the detrusor muscle in the bladder wall, which affects bladder contractility and can contribute to incomplete emptying.

Summarize how these anatomical and physiological changes together influence overall renal function and urinary patterns in elderly individuals.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Age-related Structural Changes in the Kidney

With aging, the kidneys undergo structural changes such as a reduction in renal mass, glomerulosclerosis, and tubular atrophy. These changes decrease the number of functioning nephrons, impairing the kidney's ability to filter blood efficiently.

Physiological Decline in Renal Function

Aging leads to a decline in glomerular filtration rate (GFR), renal blood flow, and tubular function. This results in reduced ability to concentrate urine, regulate electrolytes, and excrete waste, increasing susceptibility to fluid imbalances and drug toxicity.

Changes in Bladder Anatomy and Function

In older adults, the bladder wall may thicken and lose elasticity, reducing capacity and compliance. Additionally, detrusor muscle function declines, causing incomplete emptying, increased residual urine, and higher risk of urinary incontinence and infections.

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