The spleen acts as a filter for the blood, taking dysfunctional red blood cells out of the circulation and exposing the blood to the white blood cells of the immune system. As such, disorders of the spleen typically have an effect on the blood or the immune system's ability to fight certain infections.
Ruptured Spleen
A spleen can develop a rupture or tear, called a splenic laceration, as a result of trauma such as automobile collisions. The tear may be small and heal on its own, or be large, extending through much of the tissue. The upper left part of the abdomen, where the spleen is located, will generally be painful. Diagnosis is usually made using an ultrasound machine or CT scan or both. A large laceration may be a site of significant blood loss requiring a blood transfusion and intravenous fluids or necessitate surgery to remove part or all of the spleen to stop the bleeding.
Enlarged Spleen
The spleen tends not to enlarge on its own, but as a result of other disease processes, and this has consequences for the blood. An enlarged spleen, or splenomegaly, may be caused by viral, bacterial or parasitic infections. Cancers of the blood such as leukemia may also be a cause, as well as a problem with the liver or metabolic disorders. The enlarged spleen traps blood cells. Low red blood cell counts make it difficult for the body to deliver oxygen. Low platelets can cause bleeding disorders, and low white blood cells impair the ability to fight infections. Symptoms may include pain or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen, tiredness or frequent infections. Confirmation of an enlarged spleen may be made by ultrasound or CT. Treatment is aimed at the underlying disorder.
Absent Spleen
The spleen may be absent at birth, or as a result of other conditions such as sickle cell anemia. An absent spleen leaves the body vulnerable to certain infections, particularly from encapsulated bacteria, which are species of bacteria with an extra layer of protective coating around them. The condition is managed with proper immunization and prophylactic antibiotics.
