Spleen Large

Structure and Location

The spleen is covered by a fibroelastic capsule and is situated in the left hypochondriac region, typically between the 9th and 11th ribs.​

It has two main surfaces: the diaphragmatic (lateral, convex, in contact with the diaphragm) and the medial surface, which shows impressions of the stomach, left kidney, and colon.​

The splenic hilum on the medial surface is the entry/exit site for blood vessels.​

Anatomy and Dimensions

In adults, a normal spleen measures about 12 cm long, 7 cm wide, and 3–4 cm thick, and weighs approximately 150 grams.​

In cases of enlargement (splenomegaly), the spleen can become much larger, sometimes extending to the pelvis.​

The spleen contains two types of tissue: white pulp (lymphoid tissue for immunity) and red pulp (filters and stores blood).​

Functions

It filters and stores blood, removes old or damaged red blood cells, and generates lymphocytes for immune defense.​

The spleen also acts as a reservoir for blood which can be released in emergencies like severe bleeding.​

Its white pulp reacts to pathogens in the blood, while the red pulp contains macrophages that clear cellular debris.