The spleen is an important organ in the body that functions as part of the lymphatic system, which houses the body’s immune system, in defending the body against pathogens. It also functions in the filtration of red blood cells. Although the spleen is important, the body is able to function without it, if removal is warranted.
Anatomy
Approximately the size of a fist, the spleen is located in the upper left portion of the abdomen, behind the stomach and below the rib cage. The spleen appears dark purple and is classified into two types of tissue, red and white pulp, based on function. The spleen contains leukocytes, also known as white blood cells, as well as stores of iron and a reservoir of blood.
Filtration
The spleen assists the body in maintaining healthy blood by filtering red blood cells and other foreign pathogens. As blood circulates through the red pulp, worn-out and dead red blood cells and invading organisms are detected and picked out for destruction and removal from the body. It also acts as a blood reservoir, storing blood for emergencies such as severe blood loss due to trauma. Lastly, iron in the blood is picked out and stored in the form of bilirubin and ferritin, which are important components in hemoglobin synthesis, according to Dr. King of the IU School of Medicine. Hemoglobin is the oxygen-carrying molecule of the body.
Immunity
The white pulp of the spleen assists the body in fighting off infection by producing lymphocytes. Lymphocytes are an essential part of the immune system, as they are responsible for developing antibodies against certain bacteria or microorganisms. Along with macrophages, lymphocytes engulf and destroy dead tissue, bacteria, and other foreign materials in the blood.
Conditions
There are many diseases affecting the spleen, with the majority resulting in an enlarged spleen, also called splenomegaly. Many conditions can lead to an enlarged spleen, such as viral infections, liver disease or blood disorders, according to Merck. An enlarged spleen may lower the amount of healthy blood cells in the blood. An enlarged or injured spleen may rupture, causing severe internal bleeding, which can be life-threatening. In this case, removal of the spleen, a splenectomy, may be considered.
Removal
An individual can live a normal live without a spleen, because other organs of the body will take over the functions of the spleen. Common reasons for a splenectomy include a ruptured spleen, cancer and blood disorders, and infections, according to Mayo Clinic. Removing the spleen increases the risk of infection, with the highest risk in the first two years after a splenectomy, according to Familydoctor.org. Patients must stay up-to-date on all vaccines to decrease the chance of infections, and sometimes preventive antibiotics are prescribed.
