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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Is The Use Of The Spleen In The Body?

My friend has an enlarged spleen that needs to be removed. Her doctor told her yesterday that it was the size of a football. They suspect that cancer may be contained in the spleen. Can you please tell me what is the use of the spleen in the body and what will happen after she has the surgery? She has very low hemoglybin and platelets, has lost great deal of weight. She has Celiac Disease. She had a bone marrow biopsy last week and so far no signs of cancer. She is seeing a hematologist/oncologist.
Fri, 22 Aug 2014
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General Surgeon,  's  Response
Hi.
The massive enlargement of the spleen gives rise to a symptom complex called Hypersplenism. The huge spleen now removes even the normal blood cells from the circulation ( which is its function to remove the dead blood cells- but now removes normal too ) and gives rise to anemia and all the associated problems.
The commonest causes are malaria, thalassamia and such medical disorders.
The removal of the spleen helps to restore the blood cells at a normal level , hence splenectomy is done.
Cancer is a very remote possibility.
Removal will increase the blood counts and reduce anemia.

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What Is The Use Of The Spleen In The Body?

Hi. The massive enlargement of the spleen gives rise to a symptom complex called Hypersplenism. The huge spleen now removes even the normal blood cells from the circulation ( which is its function to remove the dead blood cells- but now removes normal too ) and gives rise to anemia and all the associated problems. The commonest causes are malaria, thalassamia and such medical disorders. The removal of the spleen helps to restore the blood cells at a normal level , hence splenectomy is done. Cancer is a very remote possibility. Removal will increase the blood counts and reduce anemia.