SPLEEN
Description:
The spleen is located to the left of the stomach. It acts mostly as a filter for erythrocytes while storing leukocytes and platelets. It is made up of white pulp, which is lymphocytes and arteries, as well as red pulp, which is lymphatic cells and sinuses with blood. During emergencies when the body lacks blood, it can allow for more circulation, and it can also produce its own lymphocytes and macrophages to defeat pathogens.
Diseases and Conditions
Splenomegaly
Also known as an enlarged spleen, it occurs when the spleen is overactive, called hypersplenism. It can be caused by pathogens, cancer, or injury.
Thrombocytopenia
When the spleen grows too large, it stores too many platelets, so the blood does not help clot injuries as well. It can lead to internal bleeding.
Ruptured Spleen
The capsule of the spleen, called the splenic capsule, may break open and cause internal bleeding, It is mostly caused due to physical injury in the abdominal area, but a fragile spleen due to diseases may also contribute to this.