The spleen is a small organ located in the upper left abdomen. It plays an important role in filtering the blood, removing damaged red blood cells, and producing and storing white blood cells that support the immune system.
Over time, various diseases can affect the spleen, causing it to enlarge, become painful, or alter blood test results. Common examples include mononucleosis, a ruptured spleen, and sickle cell anemia.
Although the spleen is important, it is not essential for survival. If necessary, it can be removed through a surgery called a splenectomy.
Where is the spleen located?
The spleen is located in the upper left side of the abdomen, just behind the stomach and under the diaphragm. It measures about 10 to 15 cm, approximately the size of a clenched fist, and is protected by the ribs.
This organ is divided into two main parts: the red pulp and the white pulp. They have different functions and are made of spongy tissue.
Spleen function
The spleen has several important functions, including:
1. Removing red blood cells
The spleen removes damaged and “old” red blood cells. It acts like a filter, clearing red blood cells that are aging or have been damaged over time, so newer ones can take their place.
2. Producing red blood cells
The spleen can also produce red blood cells when there are problems with the bone marrow in the long bones.
3. Storing blood
The spleen can hold up to approximately 250 mL of blood and release it into circulation when needed, such as during bleeding.
4. Removing viruses and bacteria
By filtering the blood, the spleen can identify invading microorganisms, such as viruses and bacteria, and remove them before they cause illness.
5. Producing lymphocytes
The spleen also produces lymphocytes, which are white blood cells. These immune system cells help fight infections.
These functions take place in the spleen pulp. The red pulp is responsible for storing blood and red blood cells, while the white pulp supports immune functions, such as producing lymphocytes.
Causes of spleen pain and swelling
Spleen pain and swelling is most often due to a viral infection, such as mononucleosis. In this situation, the spleen needs to produce a higher number of lymphocytes to fight the infection, which can inflame the organ and make it larger. See enlarged spleen.
However, liver diseases such as cirrhosis, blood disorders, changes in the lymphatic organs, or cancer (such as leukemia or lymphoma) can also cause spleen changes.
For this reason, it is important to see a gastroenterologist if symptoms of spleen problems appear, such as pain in the upper left side of the abdomen or loss of appetite.
In addition, severe pain may also indicate a ruptured spleen, which most commonly happens after accidents or strong blows to the abdomen.
In this situation, you should go to the hospital immediately, as internal bleeding can occur and become life-threatening.
Can you live without a spleen?
Although the spleen is very important, it can be removed with surgery when there is cancer or when a severe rupture occurs, for example.
After the spleen is removed, other organs in the body adapt to take over the same functions. One example is the liver, which can adapt to help fight infections and filter red blood cells.
Supporting spleen health
A good way to support spleen health and improve its function is through regular exercise, such as walking.
It's also important to stay well-hydrated and follow a balanced, nutritious diet to strengthen both the immune system and spleen function.