The spleen plays an important role in the immune and lymphatic systems by filtering blood and destroying old red blood cells. It is located in the upper left side of the abdomen and enlarges during digestion. The spleen can become enlarged (splenomegaly) due to various underlying conditions. While its functions can sometimes be compensated for after removal, splenectomy increases risks of certain infections that require lifelong treatment or prevention.

1. By: Margaret Oster SPLEEN

3. is an organ that creates lymphocytes for the destruction and recycling of old red-blood cells

4. is also a blood reservoir, supplies the body with blood in emergencies such as a bad cut

6. Average weight of an adult spleen is 0.44 lbs. During and after digestion, the size of the spleen increases.

9. Shortly before birth the spleen loses its ability to make red blood cells and bone marrow takes over this job.

11. Because of its wide variety of functions, the spleen may be affected by many conditions involving the blood or lymphatic system, and by infection, malignancies, liver disease, and parasites.

14. *surgical removal of your spleen

16. laparoscopically (describes the performance of surgical procedures with the assistance of a video camera and several thin instruments.)

18. Thrombocytosis (increased platelet count, which can cause blood clots)

19. Destruction of red blood cells

20. Conclusion When thinking about different body organs you usually don't have the Spleen on the top of the list. The spleen is important in keeping you healthy and infection free. Yes you can live without a spleen but you will have to take a lot of precautions and take plenty of medications to cover what the spleen did automatically.