The spleen performs several vital functions related to blood filtration, immune response, and blood cell storage:
- Blood filtration and quality control: The spleen filters the blood by removing old, damaged, or malformed red blood cells. It breaks down these cells and recycles useful components like iron, which is returned to the bone marrow for new blood cell production
- Immune system role: It contains white blood cells that detect and fight infections by producing lymphocytes and antibodies. The spleen identifies and removes bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens from the blood, contributing to the body's immune defense
- Blood storage: The spleen stores a reserve of blood, including red blood cells, platelets, and white blood cells. It can release this reserve into the bloodstream during emergencies such as blood loss or hypoxia
- Additional roles: In fetal life, the spleen is involved in producing blood cells. It also produces substances important for inflammation and healing and stores about one-third of the body's platelets under normal conditions
In summary, the spleen is a crucial organ for filtering blood, supporting immune function, recycling blood components, and storing blood cells to maintain homeostasis and protect the body against infections
