SPLEEN: is a very vascular reddish purple, organ, situated in the left upper abdomen protected by the rib cage. It is shaped like a fist, with varying size and weight.
It is a largest lymphatic organ in the body. It plays a very important role in the immune function because it purifies the blood and stores blood cells. It also helps fight certain bacteria.
CONDITIONS OF THE SPLEEN:
1• Enlarged spleen or splenomegaly
2• Accessory spleen
3• Sickle cell disease
4• Thrombocytopenia
ULTRASOUND EXAM OF SPLEEN: can detect spleen enlargement.
An enlarged spleen may cause:
1• No symptoms
2• Pain that may spread to the left shoulder
3• Feeling full without eating or after eating only a small amount
4• Easy tiredness
5• Frequent infections
6• Easy bruising or bleeding