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Does the spleen regenerate in rabbits after partial splenectomy?
Asmaa Bouknine1, Mira Chiraoui2, Abdelhak Bouknine3
1Institute of Veterinary Science, University of Blida, Blida, Algeria.
Background:
The spleen plays a vital role in the regulation of immunity and blood complete splenectomy can increase vulnerability to infection, whereas partial splenectomy preserves function. However, the ability of residual tissue to regenerate remains uncertain.
Aim:
Hematological and histological evaluation of spleen regeneration following partial splenectomy in Algerian rabbits.
Methods:
Fifteen adult male rabbits were divided into three groups, with five animals in each group. Clinical evaluation, hematological analysis, and histological examination were performed to assess the extent of splenic regeneration following partial splenectomy.
Results:
All animals recovered uneventfully. On day 15, mild anemia and inflammatory changes were observed. By day 30, the splenic tissue showed reorganization with active lymphoid follicles, angiogenesis, and restored hematologic values.
Conclusion:
Partial splenectomy in rabbits allows for structural and functional regeneration within 1 month, indicating that it a safe and effective approach to preserve splenic activity.
