The proper spelling of the term "arteriola recta" refers to a type of vessel found in the kidney. The pronunciation is [ahr-tuh-ree-oh-luh rek-tuh]. The first two syllables are pronounced the same as the word "artery", with stress falling on the second syllable. The final two syllables are pronounced with a short "e" sound as in the word "check" and the stress falling on the first syllable. The term "arteriola recta" is commonly used in medical terminology when discussing the anatomy and physiology of the kidneys.
Arteriola Recta is a term commonly used in the field of anatomy and physiology to refer to a specific structure present in the kidney. The term derives from the Latin words "arteriola" meaning small artery, and "recta" meaning straight.
In the context of renal anatomy, arteriola recta refers to the straight segment of the renal arterioles, particularly those found in the renal medulla. The arteriola recta is an important component of the kidney's blood supply system, playing a crucial role in maintaining the delicate balance of fluid and electrolytes within the body.
Arteriola recta arise from the efferent arterioles of the renal glomerulus, which are responsible for delivering blood into the kidney's circulation. These arterioles then descend deep into the renal medulla, running parallel to the loops of Henle and the collecting ducts.
Their straight course allows them to penetrate deeply into the medulla, which is surrounded by the renal pyramids. By doing so, arteriola recta help establish the osmotic gradient necessary for the kidney's ability to concentrate urine. They facilitate the exchange of water, ions, and solutes with the surrounding renal tubules, contributing to the process of urine formation.
In summary, arteriola recta are small, straight arterioles that play a crucial role in the regulation of fluid and electrolyte balance within the kidney. Their unique anatomical position and function make them essential components of the renal blood supply system, participating in the intricate process of urine concentration.
One of the arterioles going to the pyramids in the cortex of the kidney.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word arteriola recta originates from Latin, where arteriola means small artery and recta translates to straight.