The spleen is an important organ in the immune and circulatory systems, located in the upper left side of the abdomen, just under the rib cage. While it is not essential for survival (other organs can compensate for its loss), it plays several critical roles in maintaining health. Here’s what the spleen does:
1. Filters Blood:
- The spleen removes old, damaged, or abnormal red blood cells from circulation.
- It also filters out and destroys pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and debris.
2. Supports the Immune System:
- The spleen is rich in white blood cells, particularly lymphocytes and macrophages, which help detect and fight infections.
- It produces antibodies and initiates immune responses when foreign invaders are detected.
3. Stores Blood Components:
- The spleen acts as a reservoir for platelets (used in blood clotting) and white blood cells.
- In emergencies, like severe blood loss, it can release stored blood to help stabilize the body.
4. Recycles Iron:
- The spleen helps recycle iron from old red blood cells, which is used to produce new blood cells in the bone marrow.
5. Produces Blood Cells (During Fetal Development):
- In the early stages of fetal development, the spleen produces red and white blood cells. After birth, this function is typically taken over by the bone marrow.
6. Regulates Blood Volume:
- By storing and releasing blood as needed, the spleen helps regulate blood volume and pressure.
What Happens if the Spleen is Removed?
- This procedure, called a splenectomy, is sometimes necessary due to injury, disease, or infection.
- While other organs, such as the liver and lymph nodes, can compensate for many of its functions, people without a spleen may have a higher risk of infections and may need vaccinations or preventative antibiotics.
Maintaining a healthy immune system and avoiding trauma to the spleen (e.g., from contact sports) can help preserve its function.
