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Spleen

The spleen is an organ in the upper left side of the abdomen. It filters the blood by removing old or damaged blood cells and platelets. It also helps the immune system by destroying bacteria and other foreign substances. The spleen holds extra blood that can be released into the circulatory system if needed.

Primary Medical Reviewer Michael J. Sexton, MD
- Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer W. David Colby IV, MSc, MD, FRCPC
- Infectious Disease
Last Updated September 19, 2007

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: September 19, 2007
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