Spleen Anatomy
Microscopic Organization
| Structure | Key Components |
|---|---|
| White Pulp | Contains PALS (T-cells surrounding the central artery) and lymphoid follicles (B-cells). |
| Red Pulp | Splenic sinusoids and splenic cords (cords of Billroth); major site of RBC filtration. |
NEET PG “Must-Know” Pearls
- Development: Derived from the mesoderm (specifically the dorsal mesogastrium).
- Blood Filtration: “Open circulation” forces RBCs through splenic cords; rigid cells are trapped and destroyed by macrophages.
- Post-Splenectomy Blood Smear: Look for Howell-Jolly bodies (basophilic nuclear remnants) and target cells.
- Encapsulated Bacteria: Splenectomized patients are at high risk for *Streptococcus pneumoniae*, *Haemophilus influenzae*, and *Neisseria meningitidis*.
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