Understanding a Missing Spleen
What is the Spleen?
The spleen is an organ on the upper left part of the abdomen, underneath the diaphragm. The spleen plays a crucial part in filtering blood, storing red blood cells, and assisting the immune system to combat infections.
What Does it Mean to Have a Missing Spleen?
Having a missing spleen, or asplenia, is when the spleen is either absent or not working. This can be caused by many reasons, such as surgical removal, injury, or certain medical conditions.
Causes of a Missing Spleen
Surgical Removal
The spleen can be surgically removed, a process called splenectomy, for many reasons including:
Injury or trauma to the spleen
Blood disorders, such as thrombocytopenia or anemia
Cancer, for example, lymphoma or leukemia
Infection or abscess
Congenital Conditions
A few individuals are born without a spleen or with a nonfunctioning spleen. This tends to accompany other congenital anomalies, like heterotaxy syndrome.
Injury or Trauma
Severe trauma or injury to the spleen might result in its rupture and subsequent removal.
Symptoms and Complications
Individuals with an absent spleen might not have any symptoms, but they are likely to be at higher risk for some complications, including:
Higher risk of infections, especially those due to encapsulated bacteria
Disorders of blood clotting
Higher risk of sepsis
Living Without a Spleen
It is possible to survive without a spleen, but it is necessary to take some precautions to avoid the risk of complications. These include:
Vaccinations: Being vaccinated against some infections, including pneumococcus, meningococcus, and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
Antibiotics: Prophylactic use of antibiotics to avoid infections
Lifestyle changes: Refraining from traveling to regions with high infection risk and taking measures to prevent animal bites
Conclusion
Existing without a spleen involves some added precautions, but with proper management and care, one can lead a normal life. If you have a congenital absence of the spleen, it’s very important to coordinate closely with your healthcare professional to reduce the risk of complications and maintain general health and well-being.
