Calyx
A Calyx is a cup like extension of Renal Pelvis connecting it to Renal Papilla. It is a part of Urinary System inside the Kidneys. It is further of two types:
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Minor Calyx arises from Renal Papilla and collects urine from it. They are present on apices of Renal Medulla.
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Major Calyx is formed when two or three of Minor Calyces meet and join to form a larger structure.
Calyx
STRUCTURE
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Minor Calyces are wide tube like projections present on apex of every Renal Medullary Pyramid. They are lined by epithelium as well as smooth muscle cells in their walls allowing them to contract.
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Major Calyces are still wider tubes formed by two or three minor calyces. Its wall also contains smooth muscle cells.
FUNCTION
Calyces contract rhythmically towards Renal Pelvis, by the help of smooth muscles, thus push the urine towards it and out of the Pyramids in Renal Medulla.
CLINICAL IMPORTANCE
Due to constant insult by waste material tumors can arise in Renal Calyces. Hence cancers arise in this part of kidney more frequently.
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