After a Splenectomy, the Normal Functions of the Spleen Are

Question

After a splenectomy, the normal functions of the spleen are carried out by
A)the thymus gland
B)lymph nodes
C)the liver
D)red bone marrow
E)the liver and red bone marrow

Accepted Answer

The spleen plays a role in immune function, blood filtration, and removal of old or damaged red blood cells. After a splenectomy, these functions are carried out by the liver and red bone marrow, as they also have the ability to filter and remove old or damaged red blood cells and produce immune cells. The thymus gland is primarily involved in T-cell maturation, while lymph nodes primarily filter lymphatic fluid.