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Spleen Infections

The spleen is an organ located on the left-hand side of the upper abdomen, between the stomach and diaphragm. The spleen serves many functions related to fighting infection as well as the production and maintenance of red blood cells. An infected spleen may need to be removed.

  1. Fights Infection

    • One of the primary functions of the spleen is to fight infection by filtering out bacteria and viruses.

    Infections

    • Infectious mononucleosis is the most common cause of spleen enlargement. Malaria has the same effect on the spleen.

    Rupture

    • A spleen that is enlarged as a result of infection is more likely to rupture. Rupture may also occur as a result of accident or injury.

    Splenectomy

    • A splenectomy is the surgical removal of a spleen. The spleen might need to be removed if it becomes infected or ruptures because of extreme swelling.

    After Surgery

    • After a spleen has been surgically removed, the liver and red bone marrow replace the functions of the spleen. However, they cannot quite make up for the infection-fighting capability of the spleen.

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