The spleen may be rarely heard by most people, but the function of the spleen is very important for the body. The spleen functions to filter damaged red blood cells and maintain and maintain the body's immune system. When the function of the spleen is disturbed, the body will be susceptible to disease.
The spleen is part of the lymph system or lymphatic system. This purplish red organ is located in the upper left abdominal cavity, precisely behind the stomach.
The spleen is about the size of an adult's fist with a length of about 10–12 cm and a weight of approximately 150–200 grams. However, the size and weight of the spleen can vary from person to person.
Various Functions of the Spleen for the Body
The following are some of the functions of the spleen in the body:
1. Filter red blood cells
One of the main functions of the spleen is to filter red blood cells that are not functioning properly or have been damaged.
In this organ, healthy red blood cells will be released and flowed back throughout the body, while old or damaged blood cells will be filtered and destroyed to be removed from the body. When old or damaged red blood cells are removed, new red blood cells are formed in the bone marrow.
Thus, the red blood cells circulating in the body will always be clean and function properly.
2. Save blood reserves
Another function of the spleen is to store red blood cells and platelets. These two blood cells are usually released from the spleen when there is heavy bleeding, to help the healing process and replace lost blood.
3. Protects the body from infection
The spleen contains white blood cells called lymphocytes, macrophages, and antibody-forming cells. These cells can catch and destroy viruses or bacteria that enter the body to prevent infection.
4. Producing blood cells
While in the womb, red blood cells in the body of the fetus are produced by the spleen. However, the production of red blood cells is almost entirely replaced by bone marrow later after the fetus is born. In addition, the spleen also functions to produce white blood cells and lymphocytes.
Can a person live without a spleen?
Although there are many functions of the spleen, this organ is not considered a vital organ, such as the heart and brain. Therefore, a person can still survive without a spleen. In medical terms, the condition of the absence of the spleen in the body is called asplenia. When the body does not have a spleen, the function of the spleen will be replaced by a liver.
A person can experience asplenia from birth, but this condition is classified as very rare. Asplenia that occurs from birth is usually caused by genetic disorders or birth defects.
In addition, a person can experience asplenia due to surgical removal of the spleen. This surgery is usually done when certain conditions or diseases occur, such as:
- Spleen is damaged or ruptured due to a strong impact during an accident
- Enlarged spleen
- Severe infection of the spleen, eg spleen abscess
- Blood disorders, such as sickle cell anemia, hemolytic anemia, polycythemia vera, and ITPidiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura)
- Cancers, such as blood cancer (leukemia) and lymph cancer (lymphoma)
However, the absence of a spleen can weaken the immune system, making it susceptible to infection.
Therefore, people who live without a spleen are advised to complete immunizations so that their bodies are stronger in fighting infection. In certain cases, people who no longer have a spleen due to surgical removal of the spleen may also need antibiotics to prevent infection.
In order for the spleen to function properly, it is recommended that you limit alcohol consumption, not use drugs, wear personal protective equipment when working and driving, use condoms during sex, and avoid changing sexual partners.
In order to maintain and monitor the function of the spleen, you are also advised to undergo regular health checks by consulting a doctor at the hospital.