The spleen performs several important functions, but its key role regarding red blood cells is quality control and filtration. It acts as a sophisticated filter. As blood passes through the spleen's unique slow circulation, macrophages check the red cells. They remove old, damaged, or abnormal red cells (like spherocytes or cells coated with antibodies) from circulation. The spleen also 'pits' or removes small inclusions from red cells, such as Howell-Jolly bodies (nuclear remnants), Pappenheimer bodies (iron granules), and malaria parasites. Additionally, it serves as a reservoir for platelets and white blood cells. In some hemolytic anemias, removing the spleen (splenectomy) can reduce the rate of red cell destruction because this primary site of removal is gone.

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Zambia

• loveness Phiri – 1084 pts

• Visual Pathway Lesions
• Positive and Negative Symptoms
• Hallucinations and Delusions
• Antipsychotic Medications
• Emergency: Environmental Emergencies