What percentage of cardiac output do the kidneys receive?

The kidneys receive approximately 20-25% of the body's cardiac output. This percentage is significant due to the critical role the kidneys play in filtering blood, maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance, and regulating blood pressure. The high blood flow to the kidneys is essential for their function, allowing them to efficiently filter waste products and excess substances from the blood, which are then excreted as urine. This level of perfusion is necessary for the kidneys to process about 180 liters of blood plasma daily.

Understanding why the kidneys require such a substantial portion of cardiac output helps illustrate their importance in overall homeostasis and the body’s ability to maintain a stable internal environment.