Spleen

An organ that plays a vital role in immune function and blood filtration.

The spleen is an organ located in the upper left quadrant of the abdomen. It has a soft, purplish color and measures about 10 to 12 centimeters in length. This organ is part of the lymphatic system and serves as a blood reservoir, aiding in the filtering of blood and recycling of iron.

Terminologia Anatomica

spleen

System

Lymphatic system

Function

The primary functions of the spleen revolve around its roles in the immune response and blood management. It helps filter out and destroy old or damaged red blood cells, removing them from circulation while recycling valuable components such as iron. The spleen also acts as a major site for the proliferation of lymphocytes, crucial cells involved in the body's immune defense. It helps to regulate the quality of blood by detecting pathogens and initiating an immune response, thereby protecting the body from infections and diseases. By producing antibodies and storing white blood cells, the spleen serves as a sentinel against potential threats to the body's health.

Location

Situated in the left upper quadrant of the abdomen, the spleen lies just beneath the diaphragm and behind the stomach, nestled against the ribs. Its position allows it to easily receive blood from the circulatory system, specifically from the splenic artery, which branches from the celiac trunk. The spleen is positioned anterior to the left kidney and is somewhat protected by the lower ribs, which shield it from direct trauma.

Did You Know?

The spleen is the largest lymphatic organ in the body, weighing approximately 150 grams in adults.
In certain cases, the spleen can regenerate after surgical removal, although the process is not fully understood.
The spleen can hold up to 300 milliliters of blood and releases it back into circulation during times of increased need, such as during exercise.
Elephants have particularly large spleens, which help them manage large volumes of blood.
While humans can live without a spleen, its removal can make an individual more susceptible to infections.