What are the main regions of the kidneys?

The main regions of the kidneys include the medulla, cortex, and renal pelvis. The cortex is the outer layer of the kidney and contains the renal corpuscles and the proximal and distal convoluted tubules. It plays a crucial role in filtering blood and forming urine. The medulla is the inner region, consisting mainly of the renal pyramids and collecting ducts, which are important for concentrating urine. The renal pelvis is a funnel-shaped structure that collects urine from the collecting ducts and channels it into the ureter for excretion.

The focus on these three specific regions is significant because they each have distinct roles in renal function and urine production. Understanding their anatomy and function is fundamental for anyone studying medical laboratory science, as it lays the foundation for comprehending kidney-related diseases and diagnostics.