Do we need our spleen?

Answer 1

We need our spleen, but we CAN live without it. Our spleen processes old red blood cells for us and helps our immune system. Without a spleen, you are more apt to get an infection. For example, if someone had a cold, you would most likely get it, whereas if you had a spleen, there would be a chance you wouldn't. When a person has mono, their spleen actually enlarges to deal with the infection (and can actually rupture, causing severe internal bleeding).

Answer 2

The spleen is a ductless, vertebrate gland that is closely associated with the circulatory system, where it functions in the destruction of old red blood cells in holding a reservoir of blood. It is regarded as one of the centres of activity of the reticuloendothelial system. Until recently, the purpose of the spleen was not known. It is increasingly recognized that its absence leads to a predisposition to certain infections.
It is possible to live with out a spleen, it fact some are born with a congenital condition. This can arise from the genetic make-up of the fertilized egg or be acquired at any time during fetal development. The causes of many congenital disorders are not known.

Answer 3

No. It is useful, however. It breaks up old and defective red blood cells and encapsulated organisms, such as bacteria. The body then uses the blood cell components to build new cells. Kelling bacteria makes is part of the immune system.

However, it is not necessary.

A sharp blow can rupture a spleen, which can cause the person to bleed to death internally. That is pretty rare, though; the spleen is well protected.

My daughter was born with a rare blood disorder (recessive hereditary spherocytosis) in which her red cells were round and turgid, like basketballs. Her spleen then broke them up because they were abnormal, so she became very anemic and needed numerous blood transfusions.

Shortly before her 3rd birthday, she had her spleen removed, which solved the problem. Her red cells are still abnormal, but they carry oxygen, and she is able to live a normal life. They waited so long because they wanted her immune system to get built up before they removed part of it! They also gave her an immunization which is rarely used, and expensive (can't remember what it's called), to compensate her for her loss.

She's the healthiest one of our family! (We have 7 kids.)

Answer 4

Yes, and no. We certainly need our spleen, but we can live without it. The spleen destroys old red blood cells, and aids in the body's immunity. With out the spleen, people tend to get infections easier.
Check out the link below for more info.
Thanks!

Answer 5

The absence of a spleen predisposes to some septicaemia infections. Vaccination and antibiotic measures are discussed under asplenia.

* Some people congenitally completely lack a spleen, although this is rare.

* Sickle-cell disease can cause a functional asplenia (or autosplenectomy) by causing infarctions of the spleen during repeated sickle-cell crises.

* It may be removed surgically (known as a splenectomy), and indeed often is. For example, it may be removed following abdominal injuries with rupture and hemorrhage of the spleen, or in the treatment of certain blood diseases (Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, hereditary spherocytosis, etc.), certain forms of lymphoma or for the removal of splenic tumours or cysts.

Answer 6

The spleen is a ductless, vertebrate gland that is closely associated with the circulatory system, where it functions in the destruction of old red blood cells in holding a reservoir of blood. It is regarded as one of the centres of activity of the reticuloendothelial system. Until recently, the purpose of the spleen was not known. It is increasingly recognized that its absence leads to a predisposition to certain infections.

Answer 7

yes it may hold a bunch of veins carrying bloodd but no it is not needed. u could live with out ur spleen for forever. thats why when people get mono and rupture their spleen it is removed. i had mine removed last year from mono. my friend was in a four wheeling accident and cut hers and they had to remove it too.

Answer 8

yes

Answer 9

yes

Answer 10

Yes or we would nt have been born with it however we can live without it............