Introduction

The urinary system consists of:

• kidneys
• ureters
• urinary bladder
• urine
• urethra
• water
• electrolytes
• hormones
• acid-base

The main function of the urinary system is to eliminate excess water, salts, and waste products.

Main structures and function

• Kidneys - form and concentrate urine - regulate chemical composition of the blood
• Ureters – conduct urine from the kidneys to the urinary bladder
• Urinary bladder – stores urine for eventual elimination
• Urethra – conducts urine to exterior

Organs of excretion

• Kidneys eliminate water, electrolytes, nitrogenous waste, and drugs.
• Skin sweats out water, electrolytes, and nitrogenous waste.
• Lungs eliminate carbon dioxide and water through respiration.
• Intestines eliminate digestive waste and bile pitments.

This page was updated in November 2005.

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