Why Is the Spleen Red?

The spleen filters your blood, removing bad cells.

The spleen is on the left side of the abdomen and has a very important job, although the human body can still function normally following removal of the spleen.

Function

The healthy spleen weighs about 7 ounces and is considered to possibly be two organs as one. The spleen filters blood, removing bad cells, and also assists the immune system by making antibodies that fight disease.

Appearance

The spleen appears red and has a pulp-like texture because it is made of blood vessels and connective tissue. This is all surrounded by a tough protective layer.

Underneath

Under the red, pulpy outside is a white textured layer made up of lymphoid tissue. Inside of this is where the antibodies for fighting diseases are made.

Function

All the blood enters into the spleen via the splenic artery, which branches into inside the spleen. All of the blood is then filtered by the spleen.

Warning

The spleen is very susceptible to disease because it filters all blood. When this happens, usually the spleen is removed. A person whose spleen has been removed is more vulneralbe to infection. Timely vaccinations are essential for such individuals.

References

• BetterHealth: Spleen Explained