Related Experiment Videos
From sadness to stiffness: the spleen's progress
Michele Augusto Riva1, Federica Ferraina1, Andrea Paleari1
1School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy.
Internal and Emergency Medicine
|June 2, 2019
Summary
The spleen, a long-misunderstood lymphoid organ, has had its functions historically debated. Recent studies reveal its crucial role in immunity and potential as a marker for conditions like portal hypertension.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Anatomy
- Medical History
Background:
- The spleen, a lymphoid organ, has historically been poorly understood and considered non-essential.
- Ancient beliefs linked the spleen to humoral doctrines, melancholy, and digestion.
- Anatomical and microscopic descriptions emerged during the Renaissance and seventeenth century.
Observation:
- Early pathology reports focused on splenomegaly from malaria and splenic rupture.
- The concepts of hyposplenism and hypersplenism were introduced, highlighting spleen removal's risks.
- Assessing spleen function via pitted red cell count advanced the study of hyposplenic states.
Findings:
- Hyposplenic states are more common than previously thought, particularly in immune-mediated disorders.
- Spleen stiffness is emerging as a potential diagnostic marker for portal hypertension.
- Historical and modern research progressively uncovers the spleen's complex functions.
Implications:
- Understanding spleen function is critical for managing infections and thromboembolic risks.
- New diagnostic markers like spleen stiffness could improve patient outcomes.
- Further research into the spleen's role in health and disease is warranted.