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Spleen

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The spleen is an organ in the upper left side of the abdomen that filters the blood by removing old or damaged blood cells and platelets and helps the immune system by destroying bacteria and other foreign substances. It also holds extra blood that can be released into the circulatory system, if needed.

The spleen is a useful but nonessential organ. It is sometimes removed (splenectomy) in people who have blood disorders, such as thalassemia or hemolytic anemia. If the spleen is removed, a person must get certain immunizations to help prevent infections that the spleen normally fights.

Current as of: September 25, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: September 25, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

La Enciclopedia de salud contiene información general de salud. No todos los tratamientos o servicios descritos son beneficios cubiertos para los miembros de Kaiser Permanente ni se ofrecen como servicios de Kaiser Permanente. Para obtener una lista de beneficios cubiertos, consulte su Evidencia de cobertura o Descripción resumida del plan. Para los tratamientos recomendados, consulte con su proveedor de atención médica.