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Which organs make up the human renal system?
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renal system
Diagram showing the location of the kidneys in the abdominal cavity and their attachment to major arteries and veins.
The human renal system, also known as the urinary or excretory system, is composed of four primary organs that work together to produce, transport, store, and eliminate urine. These organs are:1
- Kidneys: A pair of organs responsible for filtering the blood to remove waste products and excess substances, while regulating water, electrolyte, and acid-base balance.12
- Ureters: Two thin, muscular tubes that transport urine from the kidneys to the bladder.13
- Bladder: An expandable muscular sac that serves as a temporary reservoir for urine.14
- Urethra: The duct through which urine is voided from the bladder to the exterior of the body.14