Which of the following lung capacities is the volume of air that can be maximally exhaled after a maximum inhalation? a. inspiratory capacity b. functional residual capacity
We're sorry, an error occurred. The spleen is the organ that is responsible for both the storage and purification of red blood cells. It is positioned in the left upper abdomen, and is the largest organ of the lymphatic system. The spleen serves a critical role in immune function because it purifies the blood and helps the immune system to recognize and attack foreign pathogens and allergens. The spleen is composed of the red pulp and white pulp. The white pulp produces and grows immune cells as well as blood cells. On the other hand, the red pulp is responsible for purifying the blood and removing dead or old blood cells.
The spleen is part of your lymphatic system, which fights infection and keeps your body fluids in balance. It contains white blood cells that fight germs. Your spleen also helps control the amount of blood in your body, and destroys old and damaged cells. Certain diseases might cause your spleen to swell. You can also damage or rupture your spleen in an injury, especially if it is already swollen. If your spleen is too damaged, you might need surgery to remove it. You can live without a spleen. Other organs, such as your liver, will take over some of the spleen's work.