Spleen Anatomy: Everything You Need to Know!

Introduction to Spleen & Its Role in the Body

The spleen is an important organ in the human body. It is on the upper left quadrant of the abdominal cavity and is part of the immune system. Its role includes filtering harmful bacteria and debris, housing red and white blood cells, storing and releasing iron, and producing antibodies to prevent infections. This article will provide an introduction to spleen anatomy, its role in the body, common diseases that affect it, and treatments for these illnesses.

• Spleen Anatomy – The spleen is approximately 6 inches long and weighs about 150 grams. Its surface area is about 10 square inches and it’s a plum-shaped organ that sits under your ribcage just behind your stomach. The spleen’s capsule consists of two layers: an outer fibrous layer that anchors it to adjacent tissues and an inner layer of elastic tissue that allows it to expand during times of infection or inflammation. It also has tiny vessels called trabeculae inside its walls which contain nutrient-rich veins that bring oxygenated blood from the liver, as well as lymphatic vessels which transport toxins away from it.
• Function Of The Spleen – Its primary function is to protect the body against disease by removing worn-out red blood cells, bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, and other foreign particles from circulating blood. It also acts as a filter for whole blood by trapping potential pathogens before they enter circulation in other organs such as the liver or heart. In addition to filtering out worn-out red blood cells, it also produces antibodies to fight infection since its many white Blood cells help identify invading microorganisms quickly so they can be destroyed efficiently before any damage can occur elsewhere in the body.
• Symptoms of a Damaged Spleen – A damaged spleen can cause a number of symptoms, including stomach pain and swelling in the abdominal area. Other common signs of a damaged spleen include fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, and increased susceptibility to infections due to less efficient filtration of bacteria from the bloodstream. Individuals with a damaged spleen are also at risk for developing bruises more easily or experiencing periods of heavy bleeding that may require medical attention.

Causes for an Enlarged Spleen

An enlarged spleen is typically caused by a number of different medical conditions, such as infections, liver disease, blood disorders, and certain enzyme deficiencies. Some of the more common causes of an enlarged spleen include viral and bacterial infections (mononucleosis or malaria), diseases that cause red blood cells to be destroyed prematurely (hemolytic anemias), and some kinds of cancer, such as lymphoma and leukemia. Abnormal accumulation of fluid in the abdomen (ascites) due to liver disease can also cause enlargement. In some cases, an underlying autoimmune disorder can cause swelling throughout the body. Proper diagnosis is important for successful treatment; therefore, it’s best to consult your doctor if you suspect you have an enlarged spleen.

Health Conditions Linked to Spleen Problems

• Lupus: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks healthy cells and organs throughout the body. This can sometimes lead to swelling and enlargement of the spleen, which can increase its risk for infection or disease. Treatment for lupus usually involves medications such as corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and suppress autoimmune activity.
• Sickle Cell Anemia: Sickle cell anemia is an inherited blood disorder caused by a defective hemoglobin gene that causes red blood cells to have an abnormal formation, making it more difficult for them to carry oxygen through the body. Since red blood cells enter and exit the spleen continuously in order to be recycled, this increased traffic leads to swelling of the organ, sometimes causing pain and other symptoms. Treatments include regular hydration and pain relievers; more severe cases may require antibiotics or surgery on the spleen itself if the infection has set in.
• HIV/AIDS: HIV/ AIDS affects over 1 million Americans every year and is caused by a virus that attacks specific parts of the immune system, compromising its ability to fight off infections or even cancerous cells that could cause diseases like lymphoma or Hodgkin’s disease. HIV infection weakens the spleen by damaging its architecture which increases its risk for rupture—a potentially life-threatening complication. Treatment includes a combination antiretroviral therapy regimen with additional therapies (such as chemotherapy) depending on individual needs.
• Cirrhosis: Cirrhosis is a chronic liver disease that happens to damage from the hepatitis C virus or excessive alcohol consumption. Both of which can lead to scarring on liver tissue that blocks crucial functions from being carried out by the organ. 
• Spleen Cancer: Spleen cancer is an uncommon disease, but it can be serious when not detected and treated early. According to the National Cancer Institute, spleen cancer occurs when healthy cells in your spleen become cancerous. Although it may be difficult to diagnose and treat at first, knowledge about this type of cancer can play a key role in staying healthy.

Diagnostic Tests for Spleen Problems

Diagnostic tests are vitally important for properly diagnosing spleen problems. Examples of these tests include CT scans, MRI scans, ultrasound imaging, or even X-rays. These tests help to detect inflammation or any other abnormalities in the size and shape of the spleen. It can also help pinpoint any tumors or cysts in the area. A doctor may also order a blood test to check for it if an infection in the spleen is present. Lastly, your doctor may opt for a biopsy. These diagnostic tests are crucial for accurately identifying any spleen-related issues so proper treatment can be provided.

Treatment Options for People with Spleen Issues

• Medication: First-line treatments typically consist of medications. To manage the underlying condition causing the spleen problem such as antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs. Medications may help reduce swelling and pain.
• Surgical Procedures: Minor surgical procedures, such as laparoscopic splenectomy, may be necessary. Only if medications do not have the desired effect on treating spleen issues or reducing swelling and pain. Laparoscopic splenectomy is a minimally invasive procedure. A small portion of the spleen is removed. In order to address any abnormal growths or infections present in the spleen tissue.
• Radiation Therapy: For those with more severe cases, radiation therapy may work. To shrink an enlarged spleen or reduce inflammation caused by cancerous tumors. On the organ’s surface layers. It is important to note that this type of treatment can cause further complications down the road. Due to its high-risk factor for infection or permanent tissue damage.
• Stem Cell Transplants: More advanced cases of splenic diseases may require stem cell transplants. In order for proper healing processes to take place within the body’s circulatory system. This involves using stem cells from either a donor or the patient’s own body. Taken from bone marrow in order to repair damaged tissues found within the affected area. Around the spleen and surrounding organs/tissues as well.
• Supportive Care: Many patients suffering from serious spleen illnesses experience physical discomfort. You must address it accordingly through lifestyle changes and additional therapies. Such as massage, acupuncture, or yoga therapy best suited for their situation at hand.

Home remedies for a healthy spleen

Having a healthy spleen is essential for good health and well-being. Your spleen helps the body fight infection, filter blood, and act as a reservoir of white blood cells. This is to support its immune system. Fortunately, there are some simple home remedies you can use to maintain a healthy spleen and improve your overall health.

• Eat Probiotic-Rich Food: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support digestive and immune system health. Incorporating probiotic-rich food such as yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, and kefir into your daily diet helps in optimizing your health.
• Drink Plenty of Water: Staying hydrated is one of the easiest ways to promote good overall health. Including maintaining a healthy spleen. Make sure you drink at least eight glasses of water each day unless your doctor has advised otherwise.
• Include Fiber in Your Diet: Fiber is an important nutrient that helps cleanse the body. By promoting regular bowel movements and healthy digestion. Eating plenty of fiber can help flush out toxins from the body which promotes optimal function. Good sources of fiber include whole grains, fruits and vegetables, nuts, and seeds.
• Regular Exercise: Physical exercise not only boosts heart health but also strengthens physical immunity. Including the strength and functionalities of the spleen. Try doing aerobic activities such as walking or jogging for 20 minutes every day to maintain strength in your muscles. 
• Practice Stress Management Techniques: Chronic stress can result in weakened immunity. Which prevents our bodies from fighting off infections effectively. Making us more prone to contracting diseases linked to an unhealthy spleen such as thrombocytopenia. To stay healthy during periods of prolonged stress make sure you practice relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation regularly!

When to consult your doctor 

If you experience discomfort in the upper left side of your abdomen, it is important to consult your doctor. This could be a sign of an enlarged spleen or related to other underlying health issues. If you suffer from fatigue, weight loss, bruise easily, and/or have frequent infections, these can be concerning signs. Your physician should evaluate you and should not ignore you. Further tests such as imaging studies or blood work may be necessary to determine the extent of any spleen-related issues.