Final answer:
A renal calculus is a kidney stone that forms from minerals in urine and can range in size. When large enough, it may cause obstruction and severe pain known as renal colic. The false statement is that the cortex covers the capsule of the kidney.
Step-by-step explanation:
Renal Calculus Explained
A renal calculus is a term that refers to a kidney stone. These stones are hard deposits made up of minerals and salts that form within the kidneys. Renal calculi can vary in size and are often composed of calcium oxalate. They form when the balance of water, minerals, and salts in the urine is not maintained. This imbalance leads to the crystallization of minerals, creating the stones.
Kidney Stones and Urinary Tract Obstruction
When a stone grows to at least 2-3 millimeters, it can cause an obstruction in the ureter, leading to severe pain known as renal colic. The pain is typically felt in the flank, lower abdomen, and groin and can be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Additionally, hematuria (bloody urine) may occur due to the stone scraping against the lining of the urinary tract.
False Statement About Kidney
The false statement about the kidney is 'c. The cortex covers the capsule.' In fact, the renal cortex is an area of the kidney that contains the nephrons, while the renal capsule is the tough fibrous layer surrounding the kidney.