Why is the spleen important?
The spleen is one of the body’s largest organs and serves the blood production and filtering system. It is located under the left side of the rib cage and can be injured with direct contact to that area. The spleen acts as a reservoir of red blood cells and a producer of white blood cells; therefore, an injury to it sometimes results in blood spilling into the abdomen. However, the organ is encased in a tough, fibrous capsule that helps hold it in place. If the capsule is not torn, it can limit the amount of blood that seeps into the abdominal space after injury. This organ also is very active in producing antibodies for the immune system. When an athlete has mononucleosis (commonly called “mono” or “kissing disease”), the spleen enlarges to produce more antibodies and more white blood cells and to continue acting as a blood filter. These functions are vital for the athlete with mononucleosis. However, if the sick athlete participates in contact and collision sports, he or she has a hi
