Swollen Spleen: The spleen is an organ – part of the lymph system – and functions as a drainage network which defends the body against any infections.

White cells produced by the spleen consume dead tissue, bacteria and alien matter, eliminating them from the blood when the blood passes thru it. The spleen as well sustains healthy white and red cells and platelets; platelets aid the blood in clotting. The spleen screens blood removing atypical cells from the system.

A swollen spleen is not always a signal of a problem. When the spleen becomes swollen, it can be an indication it has been performing its job but has become overexcited. For instance, occasionally the spleen is overactive in destroying and removing blood cells. This is denoted as hypersplenism. It may occur for numerous reasons, including difficulties with too many platelets and other blood disorders.