Which among the following organs is located in the back of the abdomen on either side of the body?

The correct answer is Kidney.

Key Points

• The kidneys are a pair of bean-shaped organs located in the back of the abdomen on either side of the spine.
• Each kidney is positioned at the level of the last thoracic vertebra (T12) and the first three lumbar vertebrae (L1-L3).
• The primary function of the kidneys is to filter blood, remove waste products, and regulate fluid and electrolyte balance.
• They are retroperitoneal organs, meaning they are located behind the peritoneum, the membrane lining the abdominal cavity.
• Each kidney weighs approximately 120-150 grams and is protected by surrounding fat and connective tissues.

Additional Information

• Nephron:
  • The functional unit of the kidney is called the nephron, and there are approximately 1 million nephrons in each kidney.
  • Each nephron filters blood, reabsorbs essential substances, and excretes waste as urine.
• Homeostasis:
  • The kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis by regulating blood pressure, pH levels, and electrolyte balance.
  • They secrete hormones like erythropoietin, which stimulates red blood cell production, and renin, which regulates blood pressure.
• Urinary System:
  • The kidneys are part of the urinary system, which includes the ureters, bladder, and urethra.
  • Filtered urine from the kidneys travels down the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored before excretion.
• Kidney Disorders:
  • Common kidney disorders include chronic kidney disease (CKD), kidney stones, and acute kidney injury (AKI).
  • Early detection and management are crucial to prevent severe complications such as kidney failure.