Quick Facts
The renal columns are inward extensions of the cortical tissue of the kidney between the renal pyramids (Dorland, 2011).
Structure and/or Key Feature(s)
The renal columns are described as medullary extensions of the renal cortex that extend between renal pyramids towards the renal sinus. The renal columns delineate individual lobes of the kidney, aiding in their distinction. Blood vessels, urinary tubules, and fibrous material are contained in the columns.
Function
The renal columns facilitate anchoring of the renal cortex. The presence of blood vessels in the columns contribute to the filtering function of the kidney.
List of Clinical Correlates
—Hypertrophied renal column
References
Dorland, W. (2011) Dorland's Illustrated Medical Dictionary. 32nd edn. Philadelphia, USA: Elsevier Saunders.
