Which region contains the loop of Henle?

Which region contains the loop of Henle?

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

Answer: (C)

The loop of Henle travels from the cortex down into the medulla and then returns toward the cortex, so its main portions lie in the renal medulla. This placement, with the descending limb in the medulla and the ascending limb helping to establish the medullary osmotic gradient, is essential for the kidney’s ability to concentrate urine. The renal pelvis and calices are parts of the urine collection system and do not contain the loop. While the loop begins in the cortex, the actual loop extends into the medulla, not confined to the cortex.

The loop of Henle travels from the cortex down into the medulla and then returns toward the cortex, so its main portions lie in the renal medulla. This placement, with the descending limb in the medulla and the ascending limb helping to establish the medullary osmotic gradient, is essential for the kidney’s ability to concentrate urine. The renal pelvis and calices are parts of the urine collection system and do not contain the loop. While the loop begins in the cortex, the actual loop extends into the medulla, not confined to the cortex.