What is the inner layer of the kidney called?

• A. Medulla
• B. Cortex
• C. Pelvis
• D. Renal Capsule

Answer: (A)

The kidney has two main tissue zones: the outer cortex and the inner medulla. The inner layer is the medulla, which contains the renal pyramids and the collecting ducts that concentrate and transport urine toward the renal pelvis. The cortex lies outside the medulla and houses the glomeruli and much of the proximal and distal tubules. The pelvis is the central collecting area that funnels urine into the ureter, and the renal capsule is the protective outer covering of the kidney. So, the inner layer is the medulla.