Question

The extension of cortex in medulla is known as (a) Columnae carneae (b) Columns of bertini (c) Renal columns (d) both (b) and (c)

Short answer

The correct answer is (d) both (b) and (c).

Step-by-step solution

Review anatomical terminologies

Each answer choice represents a different anatomical feature. Review these terms to understand their meanings and associations. Columnae Carneae relate to the heart, Columns of Bertini and Renal Columns are associated with the kidney. Since the question asks about the extension of the cortex in the medulla, which are parts of the kidney, option (a) can be discarded.

Understand the anatomy of kidney

Now, focus on the kidney structure. The renal cortex is the outer portion of the kidney while the renal medulla is the inner part. The renal columns are the extensions of the cortex that project inward towards the medulla, separating the renal pyramids. Therefore, the extension of the cortex in the medulla refers to the renal columns.

Compare with the mentioned Columns of Bertini

The Columns of Bertini are actually another name for Renal Columns. In medical anatomy, these two terms can be used interchangeably to refer to the same structure in the kidney. Therefore, the statements (b) and (c) essentially point out the same anatomical feature.

Key concepts

Renal Cortex

The renal cortex is the outer region of the kidney. It's like a shell encasing the kidney's more intricate inner structures. This outer layer is crucial because it houses parts of the nephrons, which are tiny filtering units. These are the parts of your kidney that begin the process of filtering your blood.

Within the renal cortex, you'll find glomeruli, which are tiny blood vessels where filtration actually starts. The cortex provides a protective layer and is critical in assessing kidney function in medical diagnoses.

Renal Medulla

Deep inside the kidney lies the renal medulla. This is where the filtration process continues after it begins in the cortex. The renal medulla consists of pyramid-shaped tissues called renal pyramids.

The job of the renal medulla is to take the filtered blood from the cortex and concentrate the urine, which is then collected and drained from the kidney. Each renal pyramid points inward towards the kidney's middle, where urine then travels to the renal pelvis and out to the ureter.

Renal Columns

Renal columns, sometimes just called kidney columns, are sections of the renal cortex that extend into the kidney's medulla. Think of them as structural beams that provide support and structure to the kidney.

They are located between the renal pyramids and serve as pathways for blood vessels and nerves to enter and leave the kidney. This arrangement is crucial for the circulation and communication within the kidney, ensuring that all parts are well-supplied and functioning in sync.

Columns of Bertini

The Columns of Bertini are simply another name for the renal columns. Named in honor of the Italian anatomist who described them, these structures help maintain the kidney's shape and facilitate the smooth passage of blood.

• Act as separators between the renal pyramids
• Ensure efficient routing of blood vessels and nerves

Understanding that these terms are interchangeable clarifies many anatomy texts, especially when studying kidney anatomy in detail.