What is the cup-shaped structure around the glomerulus called?

• A. Bowman’s capsule
• B. Renal pyramid
• C. Ureter
• D. Renal pelvis

Answer: (A)

This question tests knowledge of kidney anatomy, specifically the structure that surrounds the glomerulus to begin urine formation. The cup-shaped structure around the glomerulus is Bowman's capsule. It forms a chamber that collects the filtrate filtered from the glomerular capillaries and starts it on its journey through the nephron. The capsule has an outer parietal layer and an inner visceral layer with podocytes, creating Bowman's space where the filtrate first accumulates.

To place it in context, the renal pyramid lies in the kidney’s medulla and does not surround the glomerulus; the ureter is the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder; the renal pelvis is the funnel-shaped area that collects urine inside the kidney before it moves to the ureter.