Interlobular arteries

Interlobular arteries are a group of blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the renal cortex, a part of the kidney. They are part of the renal circulation, which is responsible for the filtration and excretion of waste products from the blood.

Etymology

The term "interlobular" is derived from the Latin words "inter", meaning "between", and "lobulus", meaning "a small lobe". The term "artery" comes from the Greek word "arteria", which means "windpipe, artery".

Structure

Interlobular arteries are located between the renal lobules, which are structural units of the kidney. They branch off from the arcuate arteries, which run along the border between the renal cortex and the renal medulla. From there, they extend towards the renal capsule, the outermost layer of the kidney.

Function

The main function of the interlobular arteries is to carry oxygenated blood from the heart to the renal cortex. They also play a crucial role in the filtration of blood, as they supply the glomeruli, the tiny filters in the kidneys where waste products are removed from the blood.

Clinical significance

Damage to the interlobular arteries can lead to renal ischemia, a condition characterized by a lack of blood flow to the kidneys. This can result in kidney damage and, in severe cases, renal failure.

Related terms

• Renal circulation
• Renal cortex
• Renal medulla
• Arcuate arteries
• Glomeruli
• Renal ischemia
• Renal failure

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