Spleen Tumor

The spleen aids other organs in your body to help prevent diseases. However, tumors can disrupt the spleen's activity and lead to conditions such as lymphoma. Spleen tumors are treatable, but your body may still be more vulnerable to illnesses.

Identification

• The spleen is a part of the lymphatic system and is located under your left ribcage in the abdomen. This organ also contains white blood cells called macrophages.

Function

• According to the Nemours Foundation, the macrophages in the spleen help destroy harmful bacteria that can potentially lead to illnesses. The spleen also helps filter blood and prevent other organs in the body from gaining excess fluids.

Dangers

• The development of tumors on the spleen prevents your body from properly functioning. As a result, you are at a greater risk for developing infections and illnesses.

Symptoms

• Spleen tumors may cause rapid weight loss, fever and abdominal pain. However, some tumors have no symptoms.

Treatment

• A splenectomy is the primary treatment of choice when numerous tumors are present. The procedure involves the complete removal of your spleen. Chemotherapy is also used to treat spleen tumors.

Prognosis

• Recovery from a spleen tumor removal can take up to six weeks, according to MedlinePlus. Your doctor will likely recommend you receive more vaccinations or take antibiotics in order to help ward off infections.