Final answer:
The term Filtration Fraction (FF) refers to the ratio of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) to renal plasma flow (RPF) and is a key indicator of kidney function. In a normal healthy person, the GFR is about 120 mL/min and the RPF is 574 mL/min, resulting in a FF of 0.217 or 21.7%. Changes in FF are important for diagnosing and monitoring kidney health.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term Filtration Fraction (FF) refers to the ratio of the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) to the renal plasma flow (RPF). This rate is an important measure in nephrology, the branch of medicine concerned with kidney function. In a healthy individual, the GFR is typically about 120 mL/min, and the RPF is approximately 574 mL/min, leading to a FF of 0.217 or 21.7%. The FF represents the proportion of the plasma passing through the kidneys that is filtered into the kidney tubules. This value is significant because it indicates the efficiency of the kidneys in filtering blood to form urine, which is a crucial process for maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance in the body.
To calculate the FF, simply divide the GFR by the RPF. For instance, if the GFR is 120 mL/min and the RPF is 574 mL/min, the calculation would be 120/574, which equals approximately 0.217 or 21.7%. This percentage reflects the fraction of renal plasma that is filtered into the kidney's nephrons, a key step in urine formation.
The concept of the filtration fraction is essential for understanding kidney function and diagnosing kidney-related health issues. A lower FF could indicate reduced kidney function, while a higher FF might signify increased workload on the kidneys. Monitoring changes in FF can help in assessing the progression of kidney disease or the effectiveness of treatments.