Structure and Function of the Spleen

The spleen is a soft, spongy organ of the lymphatic system. It serves two general functions in adults:
1.Fights infection. Acts as a giant lymph node, scanning erythrocytes, platelets and antigens. Lymphocytes produced in the spleen fight disease causing pathogens.
2. Filters aged erythrocytes, platelets and blood-borne antigens.
The spleen is the largest lymphatic mass in the body and lies intraperitoneally in the left upper quadrant. It sits on the left colic flexure1, in the left hyperchondriac region, between the stomach and diaphragm. …