CAPSULE, RENAL
\kˈapsjuːl], \kˈapsjuːl], \k_ˈa_p_s_j_uː_l]\
Sort: Oldest first
-
A flat triangular body, which covers the upper part of the kidney, as with a helmet. A hollow cavity in the interior contains a brown, reddish or yellowish fluid. The renal capsules were long supposed to be the secretory organs of the fancied atrabilis. They are much larger in the foetus than in the adult. They are probably concerned in lymphosis. A singular condition of cachexia, the leading characteristics of which are anaemia, general languor and debility; remarkable feebleness of the heart's action; irritability of the stomach, and a peculiar bronzed skin, was first described by Dr. Thos. Addison, of London, as connected with a diseased condition of the supra-renal capsules. It has been proposed to call it the Disease of Addison, (F.) Maladie d'Addison.
By Robley Dunglison