splenic

Splenic is an adjective relating to the spleen, an abdominal organ involved in hematologic and immune functions. In medical contexts, splenic is used to describe structures, diseases, and procedures associated with the spleen.

Anatomy and structure: The spleen is located in the left upper quadrant, beneath the diaphragm and protected by the lower ribs. It has a fibrous capsule and a hilum through which the splenic vessels enter and exit. Internally, the organ is organized into white pulp, which is lymphoid tissue, and red pulp, where filtering of blood occurs.

Functions: The spleen participates in immune surveillance and response, producing antibodies (notably IgM) and helping defend against encapsulated bacteria. It also filters blood by removing aged or deformed red blood cells and platelets, and it serves as a reservoir for blood and platelets. The organ can participate in both immune and hematologic regulation.

Clinical significance: Splenic enlargement, or splenomegaly, arises from infections, liver disease, hematologic disorders, or portal hypertension. Splenic rupture is a medical emergency following trauma. Hypersplenism can cause cytopenias due to excessive sequestration. Accessory spleens, or splenules, are common congenital variants. Other conditions include splenic infarction, cysts, and aneurysms of the splenic vessels.

Diagnosis and treatment: Imaging such as ultrasound, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging assesses splenic size and pathology. Management ranges from observation to splenectomy or spleen-preserving procedures, depending on the disease. After splenectomy, vaccination and, when appropriate, antibiotic prophylaxis are recommended to mitigate infection risk, including overwhelming post-splenectomy infection (OPSI). Embolization and partial splenectomy may preserve some splenic function in selective cases.

Embryology and variation: The spleen develops from dorsal mesogastrium. Accessory spleens arise from ectopic splenic tissue and are usually clinically insignificant unless involved in disease processes.