What is the spleen for?

The spleen is the lymphoid organ that is locatedBehind the stomach in the left side of the abdominal cavity. In ancient times, scientists did not know what the spleen needed for, and put forward on this occasion the ridiculous, as it seems today, theory. One of them, in particular, argued that this body affects the emotional state of a person, releasing substance melanche.

Functions of the spleen

Today, we know that this body performs a number offunctions that are provided by other systems of the body. With intrauterine development of the fetus, the spleen is one of the hematopoietic organs. However, after birth, she ceases to take part in these processes. Cells of red pulp (from which the body consists of 80%) absorb dead and damaged red blood cells, bacteria and other foreign substances that enter the bloodstream. Thus, the spleen plays the role of a filter.

One of the varieties of leukocytes arelymphocytes are the main cells of the immune system. They are produced, including the spleen, for which it uses white pulp. In the same organ is the formation of antibodies. Accordingly, it takes a direct part in providing immune functions - protecting the body from infections.

Iron, which is further used forthe production of hemoglobin, accumulates in the spleen. Also this organ serves as a "reservoir": there is some blood supply in it, which, if necessary, is launched into the bloodstream.

The spleen, whose functions are completely duplicatedother organs, if damaged, can be removed without irreversible consequences for the body. The need for such an operation (which is called splenectomy) occurs with injuries associated with organ rupture, as well as in a number of diseases.