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  Consequences of Splenectomy  
 
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The spleen is a vital organ and is used by the immune system for several critical functions and for this reason a splenectomy has serious and long-term consequences. Most importantly, the treatment of all future infections becomes more complicated after splenectomy, because a key component of the body's normal defense system is not longer present.
 

  
 

Consequences of Splenectomy can lead to:
 
 
Infections  Septicemia
 Certain bacteria, including pneumococcus and hemophilus, that are usually confined to local infections may become blood-borne (septic) and widespread in splenectomized persons. To avoid this potentially fatal situation, they are usually instructed to seek medical attention promptly for all fevers or obvious infections.
 
 


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GLOSSARY

Bacteria:  Microscopic germs. Some bacteria are "harmful" and can cause disease, while other "friendly" bacteria protect the body from harmful invading organisms.

Immune System:  A complex that protects the body from disease organisms and other foreign bodies. The system includes the humoral immune response and the cell-mediated response. The immune system also protects the body from invasion by making local barriers and inflammation.