Localisation of Renal Function

Abstract

An article based on a Dissertation read before the R.M.S. on 17th January, 1964.

Classical renal physiology as taught to the undergraduate during his medical course, regards the kidney as an entity with little attempt to relate function to the basic unit of the nephron. In most instances this is permissible as it gives a functional understanding of renal processes enabling the clinician to diagnose and treat conditions where this function is impaired, either from intrinsic or extrinsic causes. However, it is not sufficient today to regard complicated organs solely in this fashion. Thus the functions of the kidney, particularly that of ‘acid-base balance' are briefly discussed at a more fundamental level.