The spleen is considered the largest immune organ in the body and is located in the left upper abdomen, where its longitudinal axis extends along ribs 9-10-11. It weighs about 150 grams in children and may reach up to 250 grams in adults.

Where is the spleen located?

The spleen is located below the left rib cage in the upper left quadrant of the abdomen, where it is adjacent to the stomach from the front and is in contact with the tail of the pancreas from the back.

What is the function of the spleen?

The functions and benefits of the spleen in the body are numerous, the most important of which is its immune function. The spleen contains a high proportion of T and B lymphocytes in addition to being the main site for producing immunoglobulins. It also contributes to the formation of some blood cells in the fetus starting from the fourth month of intrauterine life. The spleen also filters the blood by removing damaged red blood cells and old platelets and impurities from blood cells.

Is the spleen the same as the pancreas?

The spleen and pancreas are two completely different organs and the pancreas is located behind the spleen inside the abdomen. The primary function of the pancreas is to control blood sugar levels and digest fatty foods, while the primary function of the spleen is immune.

What is the normal size of the spleen in centimeters?

The size of the spleen varies according to age, as it can reach up to 10×7×3 cm in older adults and less than that in children. Any increase in size beyond this can cause compressive symptoms inside the abdomen.

Can the spleen return to its normal size?

It is possible for the spleen to return to its normal size after treating the underlying cause of its enlargement, such as liver and blood diseases.

Is splenomegaly dangerous?

Splenomegaly can be dangerous if the patient is not provided with adequate treatment, as the enlarged spleen is more susceptible to bleeding than a normal spleen.

Does stomach bacteria cause spleen enlargement?

There is no clear relationship between infection with stomach bacteria and spleen enlargement, but it may cause a decrease in blood platelets.

Does spleen enlargement cause shortness of breath?

An enlarged spleen can cause shortness of breath if it causes severe anemia due to a lack of oxygen-carrying red blood cells.

Does splenomegaly cause death?

In a few cases of untreated severe splenomegaly, the spleen can rupture and the child can bleed so badly that death occurs.

What should a patient with splenomegaly eat?

A patient with spleen enlargement should eat a lot of fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants, such as broccoli and spinach, in addition to eating fish rich in Omega-3, which has an anti-inflammatory effect. He should also not eat excessively in red meat and dairy derivatives because they are rich in fats, which negatively affects his health.

Enlarged liver and spleen in children, is it dangerous?

Symptoms of enlarged liver and spleen in children are more serious than in adults because they can affect the child’s normal development and immunity as well.