Can a person live without a spleen? What is the spleen responsible for in the human body? What not to eat after spleen removal

Each organ in our body plays some important role. The spleen is no exception. It is important to note that it plays a big role in the functioning of the immune and hematopoietic systems, which is why any disturbance in it can affect the entire body as a whole, and then the only correct decision may be the removal of the organ. Therefore, the question of whether a person can live without a spleen and how this will affect performance is of concern to many.

In order to get a definite answer, it is necessary to evaluate in more detail the structure and functions of the spleen and find out how the patient’s life may change after its removal.

Location of the spleen in the human body

This unpaired organ has the shape of a flattened and slightly elongated hemisphere with a length of 12 cm. The spleen is located in the left hypochondrium (in the upper abdominal cavity), under the diaphragm.
The spleen is covered by a translucent membrane of the peritoneum and is protected from injury by the ribs. A healthy organ (not enlarged) does not extend beyond the ribs - normally the spleen cannot be palpated.

The spleen and its role in the human body have not yet been fully studied.

According to research, in adults the organ performs the following functions:

hematopoiesis - the production of lymphocytes - blood cells responsible for the body's immune response;
cleaning the blood of old or damaged red blood cells and platelets - the iron is then reused, and the waste goes to the liver, where it participates in the formation of bile;
regulation of the cellular composition of the blood - special mention should be made of the accumulation and release of platelets, which ensure blood clotting. Normally, the spleen stores between a third and half of all platelets;
maintaining immunity - the organ filters blood from bacteria, protozoa and harmful products of their vital activity, heavy metals, as well as substances formed during the breakdown of tissues during burns and injuries. The spleen produces antibodies - special blood proteins that neutralize foreign microorganisms and toxins;
temporary storage of blood - when blood flow is disrupted, the spleen absorbs excess blood, increasing in size. When the failure goes away, the blood is thrown back into the general channel.

The spleen can fully perform the hematopoietic function, this happens:

during embryonic development - shortly before the birth of a child, hematopoiesis comes under the control of the bone marrow;
in adults – in case of malfunction of the bone marrow.

There is a theory about the participation of the spleen in metabolism and regulation of hematopoiesis in healthy people - however, these mechanisms have not been fully described.

If we take the spine as a guide, then the boundaries of the spleen will be in the range from the ninth to the eleventh rib. Above it is the diaphragm, in front is the posterior wall of the stomach and pancreas, on the side is the large intestine, and behind is the left kidney and adrenal gland. The peritoneum (a thin sheet of connective tissue), the spleen is completely covered, but at the point of entry and exit of blood vessels from the organ (portal area), if there is a small area free from the peritoneum.

Why does a person need a spleen and where is it located?

This organ of the lymphatic system is very sensitive to bruises, bacterial and inflammatory diseases. In case of injury or increased load on the tissue of the spleen, a person develops an acute pain syndrome, manifested in the form of spasms. An unpleasant symptom can be situational or permanent.

The main purpose of the spleen is the following functions it performs:

ensures hematopoiesis in the body of children, adults, as well as at all stages of fetal development from the first trimester to the ninth month, up to the last day of pregnancy,
deposits platelets, accumulating them in the structure of its cells, and then returning them to the bloodstream to ensure natural processes in the human body,
recycling of old and damaged blood cells with their further processing and conversion into hemoglobin,
synthesis of key cells of the immune system in the form of lymphocytes, which take an active part in the destruction of bacterial microflora, suppress the division of viral and fungal microorganisms,
acts as a biological filter through which all pathogenic agents, protozoa, eggs and larvae of parasites, and toxins pass, after which an immune response occurs and antibodies of the appropriate type are formed.

The spleen is considered one of the most complex and mysterious organs of the human body, which has not yet been fully studied, and scientists continue laboratory studies of the physiological characteristics of its tissues.

There is a theory that the spleen also takes part in regulating the balance of hormones responsible for the stable functioning of the bone marrow.

Structure

The human spleen is an unpaired organ consisting of a pulp supported by a dense capsule of connective tissue. From the walls of the capsule, cords (trabeculae) extend deep into the organ, which strengthen the soft parenchyma. Histologically, two layers, or zones, of this organ are distinguished: red and white.

The bulk of the organ is red pulp. The function of the spleen in the body depends on it. To be precise, such a small piece of the human body is faced with many tasks: from the maturation of blood cells to the disposal of foreign particles.

The white part of the pulp has this color due to the high content of lymphocytes in it. Actually, this determines the main direction of activity of this part of the parenchyma - maintaining immunity.

At the border of the red and white matter there is a marginal or edge zone; it is responsible for identifying and eliminating foreign bacteria in the human body.

The size of the spleen in an adult reaches sixteen centimeters in length, six in height and two and a half in thickness. It has the shape of a flattened oval.

Is there any disability after removal of the spleen?

Is disability granted after removal of the spleen? This question is equally of interest to both those who are about to undergo surgery to remove an organ, and those who have already experienced all this. This operation is not a reason to register disability. Although the organ plays an important role in the human body, it is not vital. The only thing a patient can count on after a splenectomy is the percentage of disability, but even then in the presence of some very serious circumstances, namely complications and consequences in the postoperative period.

Based on all of the above, we can answer positively the question of whether a person can live without a spleen. And without this organ you can live a long, decent life. The most important thing is to give up all bad habits in time and monitor your health more carefully.

How does the spleen hurt?

The spleen - where it is located and how this organ hurts is of interest to many. The spleen (like the liver) is devoid of pain receptors, but in the presence of inflammation it can increase in size and put pressure on nearby organs or vessels.

The result is the following types of pain syndrome:

acute sharp pain in the left side, radiating to the scapula area;

Spleen. Where is it located and how does it hurt? It is located in the left hypochondrium. When the disease occurs, nagging pain appears.
nagging pain, the intensity of which increases with inspiration. Sometimes the discomfort radiates to the lower back;
severe pain in the left hypochondrium, spreading to the chest or shoulder area;
unbearable pain covering the left and right hypochondrium;
periodic and intense pain in the upper abdomen, on the left;
constant dull pain accompanied by heaviness in the left hypochondrium

Since the main cause of pain is organ enlargement (splenomegaly), it is often characterized as pinching, squeezing or bursting.

Features of the organ and its location in the body

The spleen is an unpaired parenchymal organ of a flat oval shape. It is located behind the stomach in the left hypochondrium in the area of 9-11 ribs. Spleen dimensions:

length 10-14 cm,
width - 6-10 cm,
thickness - 3-4 cm.

In close proximity to the organ are the pancreas, rectum and left kidney, and this organ is also in slight contact with the diaphragm. Due to the close proximity, it is sometimes very difficult to establish the main cause of pain in the left hypochondrium, since many internal organs are located in the area where the spleen is located.

Initially, the weight of the organ is about 180-200 g, but as a person grows older, its size gradually decreases. In terms of its functionality, it is closely related to the hematopoietic and circulatory system. The spleen is directly connected to the portal vein through which blood flows, enriched with useful substances and enzymes.

Despite the assertion of experts that this organ is not vital and that after removal its functions are completely replaced, statements about its uselessness are not substantiated. Therefore, if the spleen is inflamed, measures should be taken to preserve its functionality. This will help eliminate the possibility of complete removal.

Blood supply and innervation

The structure of the spleen will be incomplete without mentioning such important anatomical features as the vessels and nerves that supply this organ.

represented in this area by branches

(vegetative part) - it is responsible for performing the functions of the organ, and fibers extending from the splenic plexus (sympathetic part), which transmit pain, proprioceptive and other impulses.

The human spleen is supplied with blood by arteries arising from the abdominal aorta. They, in turn, are divided into splenic branches, and those into segmental arteries. Then another branching occurs at the level of the trabeculae and the formation of small pulpal arteries.

From the spleen, blood returns to the portal vein system. It is connected directly to the porta hepatis.

Causes of pain

The spleen rarely bothers a person with pain.

Among the main reasons that provoke organ enlargement:

inflammatory processes – often accompanied by infection. Separately, we should highlight septic splenitis (inflammation of the spleen), which develops against the background of severe blood poisoning (sepsis);
abscess - purulent inflammation of tissues with their melting;
injuries - as a result of bruise, penetrating wound or broken ribs;
splenic infarction - blockage of the splenic artery;
non-traumatic rupture - can occur in people with an enlarged organ even with standard physical activity;
volvulus (twisting of the leg) - leads to disruption of the blood supply to the spleen;
thrombosis of the splenic vein and subsequent congestion in the tissues of the organ;
splenic cysts – including parasitic ones and complicated by suppuration or rupture;
tumor lesions;
blood diseases - anemia, lymphomas;
autoimmune disorders - rheumatoid arthritis, chronic hepatitis, amyloidosis.

More rare causes of pain may be splenic tuberculosis or purpura - the appearance of many cysts filled with blood in the tissues of the organ. In most cases, organ enlargement is secondary - it is provoked by an underlying disease of the hematopoietic system or an infectious lesion of the body.

Pain in the spleen area does not always indicate the presence of a disease - the norm from a physiological point of view is:

pain when walking or running quickly - caused by the accumulation and release of blood;
pain during pregnancy is associated with pressure from the fetus on the mother’s internal organs.

If severe pain in an organ appears suddenly, then, regardless of whether there was an injury, you should proceed according to the following algorithm:

Carefully ensure that the person has a horizontal body position. In case of injury, one should strive to move the victim as little as possible.
If bleeding is present, apply a clean, tight bandage and do not apply a heating pad or ice to the sore spot.
Calm the person (in some cases, mild sedatives are acceptable) - this is intended to help restore breathing.
Do not take painkillers - this will interfere with the doctor’s diagnosis.

At the same time, it is necessary to call an ambulance - regardless of the presence of open wounds, this condition is life-threatening.

It is customary to distinguish between primary thrombosis (blockage) of the splenic vein, when the disorder is localized precisely in this part of the venous network, and secondary, when there are prerequisites in the form of negative processes in the abdominal cavity.

Thrombosis can be caused by:

infectious diseases - blood poisoning (sepsis), syphilis, tuberculosis, malaria;
vascular spasms;
chronic inflammation in the peritoneum (liver or stomach);
injuries.

The course of the disease includes 2 stages:

hidden (when there is an enlargement of the organ) – there is no pain or any noticeable disturbances. Under favorable circumstances, self-healing may occur;
period of bleeding - it is distinguished by bloody vomiting, feces, bleeding from the nose and gums. Death may occur due to blood loss or decreased immunity.

The most common type of pain is small, with a feeling of heaviness in the abdomen, on the left, aggravated by movement. Less commonly, intense pain may occur in the left hypochondrium, radiating to the scapula.

Tuberculous organ damage is diagnosed very rarely; it can affect only the spleen or be combined with general tuberculosis (more often).

The disease can occur:

acute - with a significant increase in temperature and signs of poisoning;
chronically - with a temperature of up to 37, weakness, loss of appetite, organ enlargement, and blood disorders. A decrease in platelets can provoke internal bleeding.

There are two main treatment methods:

drug therapy with anti-tuberculosis drugs;
organ removal – if tuberculosis infection is localized only in the spleen and conservative treatment is ineffective.

The disease can occur without pain, or be expressed by heaviness in the left hypochondrium and a painful, enlarged spleen.

The spleen - where it is located and how this organ hurts - is not such a simple question, because in fact the cause of pain is most often nearby organs, nerves or blood vessels.

Prescribed medications are designed to correct the underlying disease, including:

antibacterial drugs - to fight infection - one of the main reasons for organ enlargement;
anti-inflammatory drugs – in combination they relieve inflammation and help normalize the size of the spleen;
drugs that mitigate the manifestations of liver cirrhosis - hepatoprotectors, choleretic agents, metabolic correctors;
antituberculosis drugs;
antiparasitic drugs - their use in the treatment of echinococcosis often complements the surgical stage.

Diseases of the spleen may require correction of blood composition using antianemic or blood thinning medications. Taking painkillers is permissible only after diagnosis.

Where the spleen is located and how it hurts may be of interest to many. However, it is equally useful to learn how to reduce the likelihood of such discomfort.

To do this you should:

do not “test the strength” of the immune system - avoid stress and hypothermia;
strive for variety in your diet, take multivitamins (including iron-containing ones). You should eat at least 5 times a day, regularly, in small portions;
control blood pressure and cholesterol levels in the blood;
maintain an optimal level of physical activity - walk in the fresh air, play sports. This is important for preventing stagnation in internal organs;
avoid wearing tight clothing that interferes with blood flow;
minimize the risk of abdominal injury.

Pain in the spleen area cannot be relieved on your own with painkillers, especially if there is general malaise or intoxication. When contacting a doctor, you should clarify where the discomfort is localized and how it is expressed.

Article design: Oleg Lozinsky

Causes - what can cause pain?

There are not such a large number of factors, the presence of which leads to the development of acute pain syndrome in the spleen area. Based on many years of medical practice in the treatment of this disease, the following reasons are identified why this organ of the hematopoietic system almost always hurts:

infection of the body with severe infectious and viral strains (syphilis, tuberculosis, HIV, hepatitis, anthrax, AIDS, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, septic stage of infection by Staphylococcus aureus),
hemangiomas appear on the skin of the abdomen, which look like small red dots, like small moles, but of a bright and rich hue,
oncological processes in the tissues of the spleen with the formation of a full-fledged cancerous tumor of a malignant nature, the presence of which disrupts the stable functioning of the organ,
blows and injuries to the abdominal cavity falling on the left side with the epicenter of the force wave directly on the spleen (in such cases, tissue infarction occurs with multiple hemorrhages and further necrosis, which makes the use of a treatment method such as surgery inevitable),
the appearance of stones and other formations, the formation of which is associated with a hereditary predisposition of an adult to damage to the tissues of the spleen, or which arose under the influence of external and internal factors,
infection with unilocular echinococcus due to the entry into the gastrointestinal tract of a viable larva of this parasite, which in the course of its life forms a cystic capsule, provoking chronic inflammation with periodic exacerbations,
twisting of the venous vessels that feed the tissues of the spleen (this reason is not the most common, but can also cause an unpleasant symptom in the form of acute pain).

These are common factors that provoke the painful state of this organ. Based on their presence in a person’s life, an appropriate treatment process is formed. They also highlight some features of the manifestation of pain in the tissues of the spleen according to gender, namely.

In men

The male half of the population is more often faced with diseases of this organ. This is due to reasons such as working in enterprises with hazardous working conditions (metallurgy, chemical, coal industries), alcohol abuse, smoking, poor nutrition, injuries and bruises of the abdominal cavity.

Among women

Representatives of the fairer sex are diagnosed with inflammatory processes in the spleen with the presence of a corresponding pain syndrome 3 times less often than in men.

In most cases, the cause of the disease is a hormonal imbalance, concomitant diseases of the ovaries and other organs of the female reproductive system, and the use of oral contraceptives.

In modern medical practice, there is practically no division of spleen diseases by gender. Both men and women experience the same symptoms of the disease. Causal factors are also almost always common. The only difference is in the severity of their manifestation and, accordingly, the method of treatment.

Embryogenesis

In the fourth or fifth week after conception, when the embryo is an elongated tube consisting of several tissue sheets, the formation of the spleen rudiment occurs. But by the eleventh week of intrauterine life of the fetus, the organ takes on its normal appearance, and processes of accumulation of cells of future lymphoid tissue take place in it.

The size of the spleen, as well as its functions after the birth of a child, change over time. Only upon reaching adolescence is it finally formed.

Spleen diseases

Oddly enough, along with its mystery, this organ also received vulnerability to various pathological processes. As a rule, these are secondary diseases caused by existing health problems, such as impaired hematopoiesis, immune response, or tumors. Primary damage to the spleen is an extremely rare occurrence.

The spleen - where it is located and how this organ hurts is necessary to know, but not enough to suspect problems in its functioning.

Diseases of the spleen can be accompanied by a number of clinical signs, including:

the appearance in the left upper abdomen of a palpable surface of an enlarged organ or a tumor-like formation on its surface - it can be soft or more elastic, smooth or lumpy, sometimes painful on palpation;
increased temperature – often low-grade fever (up to 37.1 degrees);
lethargy or constant fatigue;
feeling of fullness in the stomach;
pallor;
manifestations of anemia;
a sharp decrease in immunity;
signs of poisoning - nausea, pain in muscles and joints;
severe exhaustion;
bloating when the abdominal cavity fills with fluid.

Separately, there are signs of spleen injury - they are often associated with other injuries and manifestations of blood loss:

nausea and vomiting;
thirst;
cold sweat;
disturbances of heart rhythm and breathing;
decrease in pressure;
dizziness;
fever;
general pallor and bruising in the spleen area;
loss of consciousness.

The presence of even some acute symptoms should be a reason to urgently seek medical help.

Spleen diseases

Factors that provoke problems come down to the following:

parasites. It has been proven that the presence of helminths negatively affects the condition of all systems. Parasites most strongly affect the spleen. They can damage its dense shell;
closed and open type injuries. We are talking about surgical injuries, bruises, wounds;
neoplasms of various localization and nature;
vein diseases (varicose veins, insufficiency, thrombosis);
diseases of the cardiovascular system;
heredity;
cysts localized nearby.

Remote factors that indirectly influence the development of diseases are psycho-emotional breakdowns, physical and mental overload, and unhealthy habits. If a person neglects his health from youth, he has some reserve of time until his resources are exhausted. Over time, the consequences of an unhealthy lifestyle begin to fully manifest themselves.

Most spleen diseases are secondary processes that arise due to disruption of other systems. Immune disorders, blood diseases, systemic pathological conditions, and tumors become primary.

A heart attack is a disruption in the flow of blood due to problems with the blood supply vessels. And if myocardial infarction is provoked by atherosclerotic plaques of blood vessels, then in the case of the spleen, the infarction is a complication of infectious pathologies, leukemia.
Abscess - suppuration, melting of the spleen. Abscess is a secondary pathology that occurs after sepsis, heart attack, typhoid fever, bacterial endocarditis. Sometimes the abscess is asymptomatic, eventually turning into cysts. With a significant abscess, the patient feels pain in the upper abdomen, the pathology is accompanied by fever and intoxication. Ultrasound reveals splenomegaly (increase in size), focal melting of the pulp.
Pediculum torsion is a condition when the pedicle of the spleen, where the blood vessels pass, becomes twisted. The condition is life-threatening and requires immediate surgical intervention.
Rupture is a condition that occurs due to trauma to the abdominal cavity. Due to rupture of the capsule, destruction of trabeculae and vessels supplying the organ with blood, peritonitis may develop in the abdominal cavity. It is impossible to ignore this condition, since it is accompanied by acute pain and rapid deterioration of the condition.

Tumor processes can be benign or malignant. The first type is rare. These can be fibromas, endotheliomas, lymphomas, hemangiomas. Based on the name, it is clear that the material for the tumor is lymphoid tissue, endothelium, and blood vessels. Benign neoplasms may stop growing and show no signs. If the tumor progresses and grows, the organ capsule enlarges and constant pain occurs. A benign tumor can cause rupture of the spleen, therefore surgery is indicated.

Liver: which doctor to contact for treatment

Malignant tumors can be secondary or primary. Primary are sarcoma, secondary are cancer metastases that have spread from another organ. There is only one treatment - removal of the organ.

When diseases are detected, the patient is prescribed treatment and diet No. 5 is recommended. This is a refusal of spicy, fried, too fatty foods. The diet should be rich in protein, vegetables, and seasonal fruits.

You need to use:

nuts (rich in essential microelements);
cabbage (improves blood counts);
beef liver;
fish;
lemons and oranges;
apples (baked);
avocado (reduces cholesterol);
beets (increases hemoglobin);
pomegranate (improves hematopoiesis);
honey (stimulates the production of blood elements).

You need to avoid fried foods (carcinogens change the composition of the blood), fatty foods (lipids neutralize essential calcium), alcoholic drinks (dehydrate), and preservatives (block organ channels).

To restore the organ’s functionality, you need to eliminate nervous tension, avoid stress, eat often, but little by little. The diet should be varied and enriched with foods containing iron.

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Functions

It cannot be said that each of us has thought about the question: “What function does the spleen perform in the body?” And even if such a thought did come to mind, it is very difficult to explain the work of this organ to a person who does not have specific knowledge.

It is primarily a source of white blood cells. It is here that they go through the stages of differentiation, mature and enter the vascular bed. The second function of the spleen in the body is immune. It synthesizes antibodies to any foreign agents that enter the blood. The third, no less important part of the work of this organ is the destruction of old blood cells and, indirectly, the formation of bile. In addition, this function of the spleen in the body is part of metabolic processes and iron synthesis.

It is worth noting the role this organ plays in the processes of blood redistribution. Almost a third of all platelets (blood platelets) are stored in the spleen until the moment the body needs them. Another function of the spleen concerns the period of intrauterine development of the child. When the bone marrow is not yet formed, it is thanks to it that red and white blood cells move through the vessels of the embryo.

The functions of the spleen in the body remain a mystery to modern doctors. Some of them can be explored, but much remains a mystery. Official science does not provide any definitive answers.

Chapter 1 Spleen: structure, functions and problems

What is the spleen

The spleen is an unpaired bean-shaped internal organ located in the left upper part of the abdominal cavity behind the stomach, in contact with the diaphragm, loops of the large intestine, left kidney, and pancreas. The spleen is connected to the stomach and diaphragm by two ligaments that hold it in one position. The organ is also strengthened by a specific membrane that tightly covers all the organs of the abdominal cavity - the peritoneum.

The spleen is located at the level of the IX–XI ribs, oriented from front to back, 4–5 cm short of the spine. The organ is small - it weighs only 200–250 g, and the older a person gets, the less the weight of the spleen. The dimensions of this organ are 12x7x4 cm. Normally, the spleen cannot be determined by touch - it does not protrude from under the ribs.

On the outside, the spleen is covered with a dense elastic membrane, the bridges of which extend into the organ, forming a framework of connective tissue. Both in the membrane and in the bridges there are muscle fibers, thanks to which the spleen can stretch to a certain size without rupturing. The organ tissue is called pulp. It comes in two types: red and white. The red pulp is similar to a three-dimensional fishing net, the fibers of which are supporting cells intertwined with each other, and the cells are filled with cells that absorb “fragments” of red blood cells that are destroyed in the spleen, and particles foreign to the body. The entire “network” is penetrated by numerous small blood vessels - capillaries. From them, blood leaks directly into the pulp.

White pulp is formed by accumulations of certain types of white blood cells, leukocytes, so it looks like light islands surrounded by a red sea of capillaries. The white pulp also includes small lymph nodes, of which there are a great many in the spleen.

The border between the red and white pulp is formed by specific cells responsible for the body's immune defense. This structure of the organ allows it to combine several different functions.

The most important function of the spleen is hematopoietic. As a source of blood cells, the spleen functions only in the fetus. In a newborn baby, this function is taken over by the bone marrow, and the spleen, according to physiologists, only controls its activity and synthesizes certain types of leukocytes. It is known that under extreme conditions this organ is capable of producing both red blood cells and white blood cells. By the way, some diseases also fall under such extreme conditions. Moreover, in these cases, not normal, healthy cells are formed, but pathological ones, which have a detrimental effect on the body.

In an adult, the spleen is a “cemetery” of blood cells that have lived their life. Here they are broken down into individual elements, and the iron that was in hemoglobin is utilized.

The spleen is also important as an organ of the circulatory system. But it comes into effect when the amount of blood in the body decreases sharply: with wounds, internal bleeding. The fact is that it always has a supply of red blood cells, which, if necessary, are released into the vascular bed.

The spleen controls blood flow and circulation in the vessels. If this function is not performed sufficiently, then symptoms such as bad breath, bleeding gums, subcutaneous blood stasis appear, and bleeding of internal organs easily occurs.

The spleen is also an organ of the lymphatic system. This does not seem strange if we remember the structure of white pulp. It is in the spleen that cells are formed that destroy bacteria and viruses that penetrate the body, and the organ itself works as a filter that cleanses the blood of toxins and foreign particles.

This organ is involved in metabolism, some proteins are formed in it: albumin, globin, from which immunoglobulins are subsequently formed, protecting our body from infection. The spleen itself is supplied with blood through a large artery, blockage of which leads to the death of the organ.

Malformations of the spleen

Malformations of the spleen are associated with impaired intrauterine development of the child.

Complete absence of an organ (asplenia)

is very rare and is always combined with malformations of other organs, usually pathology of the cardiovascular system. This defect does not affect the condition of the body in any way and is detected only during instrumental examination.

Changing the position of an organ in the abdominal cavity

variable. The spleen may be located on the right or located in the hernial sac (if there is a concomitant diaphragmatic or umbilical hernia). This does not cause painful sensations. When a hernia is removed, the spleen is also removed.

An accessory spleen is detected only during a radionuclide study, and there can be several additional spleens - from one to several hundred (in this case they are very small in size). For some blood diseases (lymphogranulomatosis, hemolytic anemia, etc.) they are removed as part of treatment. If there is no pathology, the defect does not require intervention, since it does not affect health in any way.

The appearance of a “wandering” spleen

is associated with a change in the shape of the organ (the spleen is very elongated in one direction or has “ragged” edges) and with the weakness of the ligaments connecting it to the surrounding tissues. The pathology itself does not require treatment, but in the case of torsion of the leg, when acute intolerable pain in the abdomen occurs, the spleen is removed.

Splenic infarction

During a heart attack, the vessels supplying the organ become blocked, which causes necrosis of the tissue area and disruption of the function of the spleen. A blood clot, an atherosclerotic plaque (or a drop of fat) or a colony of microorganisms (in case of an infectious disease) can block the flow of blood through an artery.

If the infarction has a very small area, patients do not complain or complain of mild pain in the left hypochondrium.

With a large lesion, a person suddenly experiences severe pain in the left hypochondrium, radiating to the left shoulder blade or lower back, aggravated by coughing, breathing, or any change in body position. Palpation of the abdomen becomes sharply painful. The heart rate accelerates, blood pressure drops. Possible vomiting. After a few hours (with suppuration), the body temperature rises and chills appear.

A laboratory test in the blood reveals a decrease in the number of leukocytes and an acceleration of ESR.

First aid consists of administering painkillers. In the hospital, the patient is prescribed absorbent and anticoagulant drugs (heparin, fraxiparin, etc.). If there is no improvement within 2–3 days, the spleen is removed.

Diagnostics

Spleen - where it is located and how this organ hurts, as well as what symptoms may accompany the pain are described above.

If the symptoms are not acute, you should routinely consult a therapist for an initial consultation and prescribe a number of measures:

collecting data on existing or past diseases, infections, recent injuries, the possibility of parasitic infection;
examination – effective for significantly enlarged spleen or large cysts/tumors;
palpation - carried out in a lying position on the right side or on the back. The doctor evaluates the position of the lower border of the organ, which, in the presence of a disease, can protrude from under the ribs, consistency and soreness;
blood tests - general and specialized studies. They make it possible to identify disturbances in blood composition (balance of leukocytes, platelets and red blood cells), anemic conditions, the presence of pathogenic microorganisms in the blood, a positive reaction to antibodies to parasites;
X-ray and ultrasound examinations - serve for a preliminary assessment of the condition of the abdominal organs, identifying tumor or scar changes;
computed tomography - performed when the previous methods are insufficiently informative, can be combined with angiography - assessment of the condition of blood vessels (if a tumor is suspected);
tissue puncture with histological examination - if a malignant process is allowed.

During the research, consultations with a hematologist, infectious disease specialist or oncologist may be required.

Diagnostics and tests, which doctor should I contact?

If you discover the corresponding symptoms, you cannot waste more than a minute of precious time and should make an appointment with a gastroenterologist or therapist as soon as possible. It is quite possible that specialists of this profile will conduct an initial examination, palpation of the abdominal cavity, and then redirect the patient to specialized specialists - an oncologist (if there is a suspicion of spleen cancer), a surgeon (in case of serious pathologies, the treatment of which is possible only by surgical intervention).

Ultrasound of the spleen – preparation for the procedure, normal size

Before undergoing ultrasound diagnostics, you should take care of preparatory measures that will enable the doctor conducting the examination to obtain the most detailed and reliable information about the condition of the organ tissues. The study is carried out in the morning on an empty stomach. It is strictly forbidden to eat food 2 hours before the procedure. You are only allowed to drink water, but no later than 30 minutes before the examination.

For 3 days the patient must adhere to a strict diet. Eliminate spicy, fried, smoked, fatty foods from your menu. The diet should consist of cereal porridges, salads of fresh vegetables, herbs, seasoned with vegetable oil. It is strictly prohibited to consume alcoholic and carbonated drinks. The norm for a healthy spleen is its structural dimensions of 109 mm length and 46 mm thickness. An error of 5 mm in one direction or another is allowed.

Examinations for suspected oncology (cancer) of the spleen

If there are symptoms indicating a tumor lesion of the spleen, the patient is prescribed additional tests for the following:

blood from a vein for its biochemical study and determination of the possible presence of cancer cells that have an altered structure in its composition,
morning urine, which displays the level of ESR, protein and the severity of the inflammatory process,
clinical finger blood test (the percentage of its components is carefully studied, most of which are synthesized by the spleen or accumulate in its tissues),
histological examination of a fragment of tissue selected during the biopsy.

If necessary, an MRI may be additionally prescribed so that the doctor has the most detailed idea of the condition of the organ and what medicine to use in each specific case.

Based on this, a prognosis is made for the patient’s survival, as well as the rate of recovery.

Heart attack

The cause of a heart attack may be blockage of an organ's vessels by an air plug or a blood clot.

This condition often accompanies:

inflammation of the heart membranes;
portal hypertension;
typhoid fever.

hidden (small heart attacks prone to self-healing);
acute - with high fever, palpitations, vomiting and intestinal spasms and intense pain in the left hypochondrium.

In case of extensive heart attacks or infection with the formation of pus, removal of the spleen may be required.

The main function of the spleen in the body is hematopoietic, therefore its parenchyma is penetrated by a huge number of vessels. This circumstance, which in normal situations has a positive effect on the functioning of the organ, can also become a cause of illness. If, for whatever reason, part of the spleen is left without blood supply, its infarction develops.

What not to eat after spleen removal

After surgery to remove the spleen, the liver takes over all its functions. The patient must follow a strict diet to prevent overstrain of this organ and others responsible for the proper functioning of the digestive system. It is important that after splenectomy the diet is gentle and balanced, therefore, when creating a menu, it is necessary to include only healthy foods in the diet. The patient should know what not to eat after removal of the spleen:

coffee and products containing caffeine;
canned and pickled foods;
seasonings, especially hot ones;
solid food;
fatty meats;
fried and high-calorie foods, food prepared at fast food outlets.

In addition, the patient should stop consuming any type of alcohol and tobacco products.

Leg inversion

Like other parenchymal organs, the spleen has a peduncle consisting of an artery, two veins and a nerve. They are the ones who support adequate nutrition and function. Sometimes, with injuries or sudden weight loss, torsion of the leg occurs. This is a life-threatening condition. Due to the lack of blood supply, necrosis can occur, and decaying tissue releases toxins that poison the human body. The pain in this condition is severe, dagger-like, up to loss of consciousness.

Gap

The organ can be injured by a fall, injury, or compression of the abdominal area. Rupture of an enlarged or excessively congested spleen can occur even with a minor impact (aggressive palpation, vomiting). In case of injury, there may be a concussion or complete destruction of organ tissue with the formation of dead cell mass.

The gap could be:

simultaneous - the capsule and functional tissues are damaged simultaneously, causing bleeding;
two-stage - rupture of the capsule and/or tissue makes itself known by bleeding after some time.

For traumatic ruptures, two main approaches to treatment are acceptable:

radical – removal of the spleen. Used in most cases, if possible, preserving part of the organ in order to prevent hematopoietic disorders;
organ-saving - suitable for minor tears. The most effective way to stop bleeding is with an electrocoagulator that “seals” the vessels.

The distinctive features of pain during rupture are as follows:

localization of pain in the left hypochondrium and its intensification when pressing on the sternum;
impact to the left shoulder blade or collarbone;
painful urge to have a bowel movement.

There are two types of splenic ruptures: capsular and subcapsular. The first can be identified immediately both by the pain symptom and by the characteristic appearance of the person, as well as the circumstances of the injury. Usually this is an accident, a fight or a fall from a height. A subcapsular rupture is not immediately noticeable and creates a feeling of false well-being.

If the rupture is small and the bleeding inside the organ quickly stops, then the person will not need medical care. This section of the spleen will be replaced by connective tissue. But in case of prolonged heavy bleeding, fluid will accumulate under the capsule, stretch it and inevitably lead to rupture of the connective tissue.

Abscess

In 90% of cases, an abscess develops due to infection entering the organ from other organs and systems through the bloodstream when:

postpartum blood poisoning;
purulent processes in the bone marrow;
ulcerative inflammation of the heart membranes (endocarditis);
infections (typhoid, malaria, scarlet fever);
liver or kidney abscess;
purulent hemorrhages.

Depending on the volume of purulent tissue melting, it is possible:

opening the abscess and pumping out the pus;
splenectomy.

With an abscess, the pain is localized in the left hypochondrium or chest, on the left. Palpation reveals protrusion and tenderness of the spleen area.

This is a focus of inflammation in a parenchymal organ, delimited from the rest of the tissue. Occurs due to a primary or secondary bacterial infection. At first, it may not manifest itself in any way, but over time, the amount of toxins accumulating in the body will lead to the development of fever, nausea, and vomiting.

Risks and consequences of splenectomy

After removal of the spleen, if all medical recommendations are not followed, very serious complications are possible, which in some cases can lead to the death of the patient:

The development of meningitis, pneumonia and viral infections.
The development of pancreatitis, malfunctions and disturbances in the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.
Formation of a hernia at the sites of tissue dissection and infection in the postoperative scar.

The main peak in the development of any complications after removal of the spleen occurs in the first two years after the operation. If the infection is not detected in time and not neutralized in a short time, this can soon lead to the death of the patient. In connection with the above, it is during this period that you should avoid getting any infection into the body. But, despite this, the answer to the question of whether a person can live without a spleen is affirmative.

Neoplasms in the spleen

Organ neoplasms are represented by cavities (cysts) filled with blood (cystic hemangiomas), lymph (lymphangiomas) or mixed contents.

Cysts can be:

congenital;
acquired as a result of infections, inflammations, injuries.

Large cysts are accompanied by pain in the left side of the abdomen, radiating to the shoulder, and are dangerous for complications and bleeding.

Treatment methods for hollow tumors:

removal of an organ or part thereof;
pumping out the contents of the cavity.

Benign

Quite rare for the spleen. These may be hemangiomas, lymphomas, endotheliomas or fibromas. They do not cause pain and do not affect the function of the organ. But if for some reason the benign neoplasm has increased in size so much that it begins to stretch the capsule, then dull, constant pain may appear, as with a cyst. In this case, it is better to resort to a prompt solution to the issue without waiting for the organ to rupture.

Malignant

They can be either primary, when the tumor is located directly in the spleen, or secondary, of a metastatic nature. As a rule, sarcomas develop primarily. The richly supplied spleen is an excellent substrate for them. Pain may not appear for many years while the tumor grows, but when it reaches a critical size, a sharp deterioration in health should suggest oncology. In addition to discomfort, weight loss, lack of appetite, and nausea will also be observed.

Treatment of inflammation of the spleen

The best treatment is comprehensive. Because Thanks to a combination of various methods and means, comprehensive work is underway to improve the functioning of a specific organ or the restorative functions of the body. The main methods of treating an inflamed spleen include the following sets of measures.

Diet (nutrition)

Organizing the process of proper nutrition is also part of the overall treatment course, which is aimed at quickly stabilizing the patient’s well-being and restoring the functioning of the hematopoietic organ. For this purpose, the patient’s menu is formed from the following food products:

cereal porridges from buckwheat, wheat, barley, corn, pearl barley, oatmeal, which contain an increased percentage of fiber and have a beneficial effect not only on the digestive system, but also on the quality of blood, which is filtered by the spleen,
white cabbage, regardless of the exact method in which it is prepared (the pickled version of preparing this vegetable will have the best effect on the patient’s health, when the shredded cabbage sours in its own juice and is fermented),
salads from fresh vegetables, seasoned with unrefined sunflower or olive oil to taste,
fresh fruits that have grown without the use of chemical fertilizers and preparations to combat insects and other fruit pests (otherwise you can get the exact opposite effect),
lean boiled red meat (veal brisket),
pork or beef liver, cooked in a steam bath, or baked with vegetables in the oven,
mashed potatoes seasoned with a little butter,
decoctions and compotes of rose hips, fresh and dried berries, chamomile herbs, sage, thyme, coltsfoot.

It is very important to drink as much water as possible without gases. Abundant filling of the body with fluid reduces the load on the spleen tissue, thins the blood, and relieves pain. This will also make the treatment process easier. Smoked, spicy, fried, sour, and fatty foods are completely removed from the diet. A strict dietary menu should take place throughout the entire therapeutic course, right up to recovery.

Medicines

The use of drugs is relevant at the initial stage of the inflammatory process in the tissues of this organ. In this case, symptomatic treatment is performed based on what exactly caused the painful condition of the spleen, and the specifics of the clinical picture of the disease are also taken into account. In this case, the following categories of drugs are used:

anti-inflammatory to reduce swelling of the mucous membrane and stop diffuse changes in tissue structure,
antibacterial, if the cause of damage to the spleen is the penetration of severe forms of infectious pathogens into it (for viral or fungal invasions, medications of the corresponding group are used),
antispasmodics to reduce the severity of pain in order to improve the patient’s quality of life for the period until the inflammation is relieved,
vitamin and mineral complexes to stimulate the activity of cells of the immune system and increase their resistance to pathogenic microflora while the hematopoietic organ is restored,
intravenous drips based on chemistry, if, based on the results of a comprehensive examination and interpretation of tests, the patient was diagnosed with a malignant neoplasm,
anthelmintics for patients who have been diagnosed with organ damage by helminths or microorganisms leading a parasitic lifestyle.

Medicines in the form of tablets, as well as intramuscular and intravenous injections can be used. Each type of medicine is selected individually.

The dosage, frequency and duration of its administration are established according to a similar principle. It all depends on what decision the attending physician makes in terms of organizing the therapeutic process. The duration of drug treatment ranges from 10 to 25 days.

Folk remedies at home

There are several folk recipes for restoring the functionality of the spleen tissue as a separate and independent organ. To achieve this goal using alternative medicine techniques, you must follow simple rules consisting of the following recommendations.

Recipe No. 1

Take 20 grams of green sow thistle plant and finely chop it.
Pour 1 liter of boiling water over the medicinal herb and leave to steep for 20 minutes.
Squeeze 100 grams of juice from carrots and radishes.
Add juice to the resulting decoction of thistle and mix thoroughly.

This home remedy is taken over the next 14 days, 100 grams 5 times a day. If the time of administration coincides with breakfast, lunch or dinner, then you should drink the decoction 15 minutes before meals.

Recipe No. 2

Take 1 tablespoon of dried St. John's wort and pour into a metal container. This could be a saucepan, a ladle, or any other vessel.
Pour 1 liter of cold running water over the healing plant.
Place over low heat and simmer for the next 30 minutes.
After the specified time has passed, remove from the stove and let it brew for another 2 hours.

After cooling, drink 150 grams three times a day 40 minutes before meals. The optimal time for home therapy for this prescription is 7-12 days. If necessary, you can extend the course by 2-3 days.

Recipe No. 3

Take a medium-sized black radish root vegetable.
Wash it thoroughly and peel it.
Cut into even slices, and then transfer them to a mechanical meat grinder or food processor.
Grind the root vegetable to a pulp.
Place the resulting mixture on a cloth and apply to the left hypochondrium for 2 hours, once a day. In this case, the ground radish pulp acts as a biochemical compress.

Which traditional medicine to use in each specific case is determined by the patient himself in close consultation with his doctor. It is important to remember that alternative medicine and its recipes are not officially recognized and there is no 100% guarantee that a person suffering from pain in the spleen will feel better and the symptoms will completely go away.

Removal surgery - indications and how to live without a spleen?

Surgery is one of the most radical methods of treating inflammatory processes in this organ of the human hematopoietic system. It is used only in extreme cases, when tissue suppuration and abscess formation have occurred.

The glandular structure of the spleen is very sensitive to the slightest irritants. Therefore, even a minor inflammatory process can quickly develop into a full-fledged purulent focus with all the ensuing consequences. The surgery is performed in a hospital setting under general anesthesia.

The affected organ is completely excised for the patient and the edges of the epithelial tissues in the area of its location are sutured. Sutures are also placed on the main vessels, ensuring a constant flow of venous blood. Upon completion of these manipulations, the patient is transferred to the intensive care unit for a day, and then to the general ward.

Life without a spleen has its own characteristics, which include organizing proper nutrition, giving up alcohol and smoking. It is necessary to regularly take medications that stimulate the immune system, prevent hypothermia, and treat infectious and viral diseases in a timely manner, since without the spleen the immune system becomes very weak and the quality of the blood decreases. This can be checked by passing a basic clinical test of capillary blood from a finger.

Asplenia

This term refers to a complex of painful symptoms characteristic of the absence of a spleen, including:

shortness of breath;
heartbeat;
circulatory and blood pressure disorders;
reduced resistance to infections;
increased thrombus formation.

There are:

congenital asplenia - rare, predominantly in boys, accompanied by underdevelopment of other organs and systems, in 95% of cases incompatible with life;
acquired - occurs after removal of the spleen, more often in men 30–45 years old. Severe asplenia is not a necessary consequence of surgery.

Congenital defects require surgery; in the acquired form, the following are indicated:

prevention of infections through vaccination;
taking medications that reduce blood viscosity.

Asplenic syndrome does not cause pain in the spleen area.

Prediction of survival after spleen removal

When a doctor prescribes a splenectomy, many patients are interested in the question of whether a person can live without a spleen. After all, organ transplantation is a very rare and expensive operation, the waiting list for which is quite long. People are also concerned about the question of how long they live after removal of the spleen.

The prognosis for patient survival after organ removal is quite favorable, since such an operation is not critical. In general, a favorable outcome depends on how well the patient correctly and carefully adheres to all the recommendations and advice of the attending physician.

Splenomegaly

This is an increase in size of the spleen as a result of a compensatory response to systemic inflammatory or autoimmune diseases, as well as damage to the hematopoietic organs. It is more often observed in children of preschool and primary school age. In adults, this condition is extremely rare. The pain will be constant, but after the cause is eliminated, everything will return to normal.

Perhaps not everyone today knows what kind of organ the spleen is, where it is located and how it hurts. But the task of a local general practitioner or a more specialized specialist is to, having correctly collected an anamnesis, identify damage regardless of the patient’s knowledge of human anatomy. Often diseases of this organ are disguised as stomach, heart, or muscle pain, which makes diagnosis difficult.

The structure of the spleen allows it to be a collector of spent blood cells and at the same time a cradle for immune units. These are unique abilities that cannot be compensated by any other organ. The role of the spleen is often underestimated by ordinary people, but if you conduct a thorough analysis, you may be surprised how much depends on its well-being. Take care of your health! It’s better to live your whole life and not know what pain in the left hypochondrium is.

What is the spleen? Where is it located and how does it hurt? Such questions are asked by happy people whose bodies work like clockwork.

Spleen tumors

A distinctive feature of a tumor is a change in the mechanism of cell growth and division.

Among the tumors of the spleen are:

benign – hemangioma, lymphangioma, fibroma, chondroma, osteoma;
malignant - various sarcomas and spleen cancer. May be a consequence of metastases of tumors in other organs.

Tumors of the spleen are extremely rare; the symptoms are typical for an enlarged organ - weakness, anemia, low-grade fever. The pain syndrome can vary from discomfort to sharp pain in the left side. If there is growth or malignancy, removal of the organ is indicated.

Echinococcosis

The disease is characterized by the formation of parasitic cysts in the tissues of the organ. The causative agent of infection, echinococcus, enters the body due to insufficient hygiene or with contaminated food.

The development of the parasite proceeds slowly, in three stages:

Asymptomatic (hidden) – can last up to 20 years.
Severe manifestations - patients note heaviness and dull pain in the left hypochondrium, shortness of breath, vomiting after eating.
Complications – organ abscess with corresponding symptoms.

The preferred treatment strategy is to remove the organ completely. In some cases, it is possible to open the parasitic cyst, partially excise the walls and apply sutures.

Features of the patient's life after removal of the spleen

After removal of the spleen, the patient begins a recovery period, which can last from 1 to 3 months. The doctor, both before and after the operation, must explain to the patient how to live without a spleen, tell him what diet to follow and detail the list of prohibited foods and actions. The patient, in turn, must be under the regular supervision of a doctor and unquestioningly follow all his recommendations. This is the only way to avoid most of the unpleasant consequences and complications after the operation.

After surgery to remove the spleen, you should not take a hot bath.
All heavy physical activity should be avoided.
The patient should avoid places where there are large crowds of people, and should not contact people with a viral or bacterial infection. As a rule, at the first symptoms of any disease, do not leave everything to chance and do not self-medicate, but immediately contact your doctor.
During the cold season, you should take vitamins and immunostimulants to prevent the development of colds. Avoid hypothermia.

Due to the fact that after removal of the spleen there is a double load on the liver, the patient must be on a strict diet for the rest of his life. Nutrition should be balanced and easily digestible. You need to eat often and in small portions, avoid overeating. After removal of the spleen, the patient is allowed the following products:

lean meats;
dairy and fermented milk products;
fresh and boiled vegetables and fruits in large quantities;
cereals;
seafood.

A person should drink at least 1.5 liters of liquid per day. You can drink weak black tea, fruit juice, compote, rosehip, boiled or still mineral water.

Several times a year, as prescribed by your doctor, you should take choleretic drugs to avoid stagnation of bile in the body. With each meal, the body should receive a sufficient amount of proteins, carbohydrates and vitamins. All food consumed should be boiled, baked or steamed.

Septic spleen

This condition is one of the signs of a general severe infection of the body (most often with staphylococcus or Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Sepsis (blood poisoning) can result from a sharp decrease in immune defense due to large blood loss or serious illness.

Swelling and softening of the spleen is the main sign of sepsis, but it is also characteristic of other severe infections:

typhoid fever;
malaria;
infectious mononucleosis.

It is difficult to focus on pain specifically in the spleen during sepsis - general infection is often accompanied by signs of inflammation of the peritoneum - acute abdominal pain. In acute sepsis, the spleen becomes extremely vulnerable to rupture. The main treatment should be aimed at combating general inflammation.