Page 4 - Chapter06 SPLEEN REVIEW
P. 4
ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY
• In the fetus, the spleen is responsible for erythropoiesis.
• In childhood, it plays an important role in the defense
against infection.
• In adults, it produces lymphocytes and monocytes. Although red blood cell production in the adult is primarily performed by the red bone marrow, the spleen’s hematopoietic function can return in cases of severe anemia.
• Thisisreferredtoasextramedullaryhematopoiesis.
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