Spleen: Structure and Function

The spleen is an important organ located in the upper left part of the abdomen, under the rib cage. It is part of the lymphatic system and plays a crucial role in the body's immune response and blood filtration.

Structure of the Spleen

The spleen is a soft, purplish organ that is about the size of a fist. It is made up of two main types of tissue: white pulp and red pulp. The white pulp contains immune cells called lymphocytes, which help to fight off infections and diseases. The red pulp is responsible for filtering the blood, removing old or damaged red blood cells, and storing platelets.

Functions of the Spleen

The spleen performs several important functions in the body:

1. Immune Response: The spleen acts as a filter for the blood, removing bacteria, viruses, and other foreign particles. It also produces antibodies and immune cells to help the body fight off infections.
2. Blood Filtration: The red pulp of the spleen helps to filter the blood, removing old or damaged red blood cells and recycling their components. It also stores platelets, which are important for blood clotting.
3. Storage of Red Blood Cells: The spleen stores a reserve of red blood cells that can be released into the bloodstream when needed, such as during times of increased demand or in cases of blood loss.

Common Spleen Disorders

Several disorders can affect the spleen, including:

• Splenomegaly: This refers to an enlarged spleen, which can be caused by infections, liver disease, or certain types of cancer.
• Splenectomy: In some cases, the spleen may need to be removed surgically due to trauma, disease, or other medical reasons. This procedure is called a splenectomy.

Study Guide

To better understand the spleen, consider the following study guide questions:

1. What are the main functions of the spleen?
2. Describe the structure of the spleen, including the white pulp and red pulp.
3. How does the spleen contribute to the body's immune response?
4. What are some common disorders that can affect the spleen?
5. Explain the importance of the spleen in blood filtration and storage.

By exploring these questions and delving into the structure and functions of the spleen, you can gain a deeper understanding of this vital organ and its role in maintaining overall health and well-being.