Spleen Functions in Immune Defense: Filtration, Cell Production, and Pathogen Response
Key Protective Roles
- Blood Filtration: Removes old/damaged RBCs, bacteria, viruses.
- Immune Cell Production: Site for lymphocyte maturation (B & T cells).
- Platelet Storage: Reservoir for clotting; releases during injury.
- Antibody Production: Supports B-cell maturation → antibody generation.
- Hemolysis: Macrophages recycle senescent RBCs (erythrophagocytosis).
- Blood Quality Monitoring: Detects abnormal cells (cancer, infected) for removal.
- Complement Activation: Enhances pathogen neutralization.
The spleen is a vital immune sentinel. Splenectomy increases infection risk (especially encapsulated bacteria); vaccination and antibiotic prophylaxis are essential post-removal.
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