Chapter 17- Spleen Flashcards
(44 cards)
At what week of embryonic life does hematopoesis begin?
11
What does the spleen produce during embryonic life
red and white blood cells
What blood cells does the spleen produce after birth?
White blood cells
The spleen is considered an intraperitoneal organ. Why?
It’s completely covered by peritoneum except for the hilum
The length of the spleen varies, but about how long is it?
8-13 cm
What is the normal AP measurement of the spleen?
7-8 cm
What is the minumum length of a spleen with splenomegaly
13cm
The spleen is the largest organ in the ______ system
lymphatic
is the spleen required for life
no
The splenic vein joins the SMV to form what structure
Main Portal Vein
Where does the splenic artery come from
the left branch of the celiac axis
describe the echogenicity AND echotexture of the spleen
isoechoic/hypoechoic to the liver. homogeneous and smooth texture
The spleen is part of which body system that is responsbile for phagocytosis?
the reticuloendothelial system
The spleen has a true capsule. What does this mean
it is a fragile organ
What is phagocytosis
engulfing and destroying damaged and old cells and pathogens.
What are the 4 functions of the spleen
defense, hematopoiesis, blood cell and platelet distruction, blood reservor
when might a post-birth spleen produce red blood cells
in a case of severe hemolytic anemia
what is white pulp
it produces the white blood cells which ingest harmful pathogens that enter the bloodstream as an immune response
white pulp contains Malphigian corpuscles. what do these do?
they perform the lymphatic functions. lymph destroys bacteria and pathogens
Where is the white pulp located
it surrounds the smaller splenic arteries
when does red pulp form
after birth
what does red pulp do
destroys red blood cells through phagocytosis
red pulp is looser and more vascular. what is it made of?
splenic sinuses and splenic cords
What is a splenic sinus?
a long chennel that occupies the space that is not filled by white pulp
