Question

The outermost covering of the kidney is
A) Cortex
B) Medulla
C) Pelvis
D) Capsule

Answer 1

Hint:Kidneys are a pair of bean-shaped organs that filter the blood, removes waste, and regulates the electrolytes and fluids in the body. Kidneys are located in the abdominal cavity, on each side of the spine.

Complete answer:
Internally, the kidney has three regions: an outer cortex, medulla in the middle, and the renal pelvis.
The medulla is the innermost part of the kidney and it helps in the reabsorption of water. It contains the structures of the nephrons responsible for maintaining the salt and water balance of the blood.The renal cortex is the outer portion of the kidney between the renal capsule and the renal medulla.In the adult, it forms a continuous smooth outer zone with several projections that extend down between the pyramids.The renal pelvis is the region that leads the kidney to the ureter. It is formed by the opening of calyces.
The outermost covering of the kidney is covered by the renal capsule, a tough fibrous layer. Above the renal capsule, is the perirenal fat capsule, which helps to keep the kidneys in their places. The outermost layer is called the renal fascia. These are the external coverings of the kidney. The capsule is composed of tough fibers, mainly collagen and elastin, that help to support the kidney mass and protect the vital tissue from any injury. The maximum thickness of the membrane is generally 2 to 3 mm. The capsule covers the outer walls and enters into a hollow part of the kidney known as the sinus. The sinus contains the ducts that transport urine, and the arteries and veins, which supply the tissue with nutrients and oxygen. The capsule connects to these structures within the sinus and lines the sinus wall.

Hence, the correct option is D, “Capsule”.

Note:In a normal person, the capsule is light reddish-purple in color, translucent, and smooth. A diseased kidney regularly sends fibrous connections from the main body of tissue to the capsule, which makes the capsule attach more strongly. Usually, the capsule can be easily stripped from the rest of the kidney’s tissue but a diseased kidney may have difficulty in removing the capsule.