Dr. Ali A. Khraibi, Prof of Physiology in the College of Medicine at Alfaisal University gave a seminar entitled “Renal Function Adaptations to Pregnancy” on Wednesday 8 April 2009 at Alfaisal. Normal pregnancy is characterized by sodium and water conservation and an increase in plasma volume that is required for an uncomplicated pregnancy.
Renal interstitial hydrostatic pressure (RIHP), one of the physical forces that determine sodium reabsorption from the renal tubules of the kidney, is significantly decreased in pregnant rats. This decrease in RIHP may play an important role in the sodium and water retention and the consequent increase in blood volume that characterizes normal pregnancy. The talk was well attended with over 45 faculty, staff and students.
There were numerous questions both during as well as at the end of the presentation.
