Renal plexus

Renal plexus is a part of the autonomic nervous system that provides nerve supply to the kidney. The renal plexus is derived from the celiac plexus and the aorticorenal ganglion.

Etymology

The term "renal" is derived from the Latin word "renes", meaning kidneys. "Plexus" is derived from the Latin word "plexus" which means braid or network, referring to the network of nerves.

Anatomy

The renal plexus is a network of nerves that provide innervation to the kidneys and the renal artery. It is formed by filaments from the celiac ganglion, the aorticorenal ganglion, and the smallest splanchnic nerve. The nerves follow the renal artery to reach the kidney, where they form a network around the renal vessels.

Function

The renal plexus carries both sympathetic and sensory fibers. The sympathetic nervous system fibers come from the thoracic spinal cord segments T10-T12. These fibers are involved in the regulation of blood flow through the kidneys and the secretion of renin, a hormone that regulates blood pressure. The sensory fibers carry pain sensation from the kidneys to the spinal cord.

Clinical significance

Damage to the renal plexus can result in renal neuropathy, a condition characterized by pain, numbness, or weakness in the kidneys. This can be caused by diseases such as diabetes or by physical trauma to the kidneys or the nerves themselves.

Related terms

• Autonomic nervous system
• Celiac plexus
• Aorticorenal ganglion
• Renal artery
• Sympathetic nervous system
• Thoracic spinal cord
• Renal neuropathy

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  Gray's Anatomy illustration of the renal plexus