Accessory spleen
Accessory Spleen
Accessory spleen (pronunciation: ak-ses-uh-ree spleen) is a medical term referring to small nodules of splenic tissue found apart from the main body of the spleen.
Etymology
The term "accessory" is derived from the Latin word "accessorius" meaning additional, and "spleen" from the Greek word "splen".
Definition
An accessory spleen is a small globule of spleen tissue that is separate from the main body of the spleen. These are congenital and are found in approximately 10% of the population. They are typically around 1 cm in diameter, although they can be larger.
Clinical Significance
Accessory spleens are usually asymptomatic and are often discovered incidentally during abdominal surgery or imaging studies. They have the same function as the normal spleen, which includes filtration of the blood, removal of old and damaged red blood cells, and a role in the immune response.
In cases where the main spleen has been removed (splenectomy), the accessory spleen can continue to perform some of the functions of the spleen. This can be beneficial in maintaining some immune function, but can also cause problems if the reason for the splenectomy was a disease of the spleen, as the accessory spleen can continue the disease process.
Related Terms
- Spleen: An organ involved in the production and removal of blood cells in most vertebrates and forming part of the immune system.
- Splenectomy: A surgical procedure that partially or completely removes the spleen.
- Congenital: A condition that is present at birth.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Accessory spleen
- Wikipedia's article - Accessory spleen
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