Spleen

Lien

A fist-sized organ in the left hypochondriac region, protected by the 9th-11th ribs. It has a smooth diaphragmatic surface and a visceral surface with hilum. Red pulp filters blood and removes aged erythrocytes; white pulp contains lymphoid tissue for immune function.

Type Organ
Body System Lymphatic/Immune
Body Region Abdomen
Parent Structure hemopoietic organ
Latin Name Lien
FMA ID 7196

Function

The largest lymphoid organ, filtering blood and removing old or damaged red blood cells. Stores platelets and monocytes. Produces antibodies and mounts immune responses against blood-borne pathogens.

Clinical Significance

Splenic rupture from blunt abdominal trauma is a surgical emergency. Splenomegaly occurs in various hematologic and infectious conditions. Post-splenectomy patients are at increased risk for encapsulated bacterial infections.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Spleen?
A fist-sized organ in the left hypochondriac region, protected by the 9th-11th ribs. It has a smooth diaphragmatic surface and a visceral surface with hilum. Red pulp filters blood and removes aged erythrocytes; white pulp contains lymphoid tissue for immune function.
What is the function of the Spleen?
The largest lymphoid organ, filtering blood and removing old or damaged red blood cells. Stores platelets and monocytes. Produces antibodies and mounts immune responses against blood-borne pathogens.
What body system is the Spleen part of?
The Spleen is part of the Lymphatic/Immune.
What conditions affect the Spleen?
Splenic rupture from blunt abdominal trauma is a surgical emergency. Splenomegaly occurs in various hematologic and infectious conditions. Post-splenectomy patients are at increased risk for encapsulated bacterial infections.
Where is the Spleen located?
The Spleen is located in the Abdomen region of the body.

Related Structures

arthropod hepatopancreas crustacean digestive gland bone marrow medulla of bone dorsal patch of Leydig's organ epigonal organ subgonal organ haemal node hemal node hematopoietic tissue bone marrow tissue hilum of spleen hilum immune organ immune system organ

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