2. Spleen is an important internal organ that is on average not larger than the size of a fist. It’s part of the circulatory system. It acts as a filter for blood. Not vital for human survival. What is a SPLEEN?
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4. The spleen removes old red blood cells (erythrocytes) from the blood supply. Also removes, stores and produces white blood cells (lymphocytes). FUNCTIONS
5. The spleen is located in the upper-left part of the abdomen. It’s protected by the rib cage. WHERE IS THE SPLEEN LOCATED
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7. Red and pulpy The red pulp consist of blood vessels. (The red pulp filters the blood) Average of 12 cm long, 7cm high and 4 cm thick. Average weight (normal adult spleen) 0.44 lbs. Characteristics
9. A doctor can tell if a spleen is enlarged by pressing hard on the belly under the rib cage. UNTRASOUND MRI BONE MARROW BIOPSY LIVER AND SPLEEN SCAN CT SCAN SPLEEN EXAMINATION
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11. Sometimes splenectomy is required due to a rupture caused by injury or if damaged due to a disease. Although you could survive without a spleen, it decreases the ability to fight infections. Other organs (liver) will take over some of the functions. Spleen removal
12. McDowell, Julie (2004). The Lymphatic System WEB MD Spleen= Retrieved June 11, 2011 from http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/picture-of-the-spleen References
