Spleen

Question 1

Spleen is a blood-rich organ about size of
one’s fist, located in the () of abdomen (deep
to right 8-10 ribs)
-Largest lymphoid organ

Answer 1

LUQ

Question 2

Functions
Site of lymphocyte () and immune
surveillance and response
- Cleanses blood of () red blood cells and ();
macrophages remove debris

Answer 2

proliferation
aged
platelets

Question 3

Additional functions of spleen:
* Stores breakdown products of RBCs (e.g., iron) for later reuse
* Stores blood () and () for release into blood when
needed

Answer 3

platelets
monocytes

Question 4

Histologically, consists of two components
*(/)
* Mostly lymphocytes
* (/)
* Rich in RBCs and macrophages that engulf them

Answer 4

White pulp
Red pulp

Question 5

CLINICAL – SIGNIFICANCE:
The spleen has a thin capsule, so direct blow or severe infection may
cause it to (), spilling blood into peritoneal cavity
(): surgical removal of ruptured spleen

• Once standard treatment to prevent hemorrhage and shock, but has been
  discovered spleen can often repair itself
• Frequency of emergency splenectomies has decreased dramatically
• If spleen must be removed, liver and bone marrow take over most of its
  functions
• In children younger than 12, spleen will regenerate if a small part is left
• Some children may become immunocompromised if not regenerated

Answer 5

rupture
Splenectomy