Understanding the Spleen: Function, Symptoms & Potential Injuries

In humans, the spleen is about five inches long and weighs about six ounces. The spleen is part of the lymphatic system. It contains the largest collection of lymphoid tissue in the body.

Function

• The spleen is responsible for the removal of abnormal blood cells, the storage of iron from recycled red blood cells, and the initiation of immune responses to antigens in the blood.

Sports Injury

• The spleen can be damaged by an impact to the left side of the abdomen. Known risks of such injuries exist in contact sports and skiing.

Fragility

• The spleen tears so easily that a minor blow to the side may rupture the capsule, resulting in serious internal bleeding and eventual circulatory shock.

Other Damage

• The spleen can be damaged by infection, inflammation or cancer.

Treatment

• Treatment for a severely damaged spleen is complete removal, known as a splenectomy. A person can live without a spleen, but the ability to fight infection may be greatly reduced.