In the medical literature, the term “cephalic kidney” (or “pre-kidney”) is used to refer to the organ that is located on the anterior wall of the abdominal cavity and is the predecessor of the kidneys. This organ is formed during embryonic development and gradually increases in size until it reaches its final position in the abdominal cavity.
The head kidney has a complex structure and consists of several layers. The most important of these is the epithelial layer, which covers the surface of the organ and provides its protection from external influences. Also in the head kidney there are several blood vessels that provide its nutrition and metabolism.
During the development of the body, the head kidney gradually loses its function and turns into kidneys. This occurs around the 20th week of pregnancy. At this moment, the kidneys begin to form inside the abdominal cavity, and the head kidney continues to grow, but in a different direction.
Despite the fact that the head kidney is the precursor of the kidneys, its role in the body is still unclear. Some researchers believe that this organ may play a role in kidney development and function, as well as in regulating metabolism. However, other scientists do not support this point of view and believe that the head kidney is not essential for human health.
Thus, the head kidney is an important organ that plays a role in the formation of the kidneys. However, it is still unclear exactly what function it performs and how important it is for human health.