Spleen

Chapter 10 - Spleen

Normal Architecture and Non-neoplastic and Neoplastic Lesions in Children

from Section 1 - General and Non-neoplastic Hematopathology

Published online by Cambridge University Press: 01 October 2026

Flavia G. N. Rosado,

Genevieve M. Crane and

Dennis P. O’Malley

Edited by

Maria A. Proytcheva and

Robert B. Lorsbach

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Maria A. Proytcheva: Affiliation:
University of Arizona, College of Medicine
Robert B. Lorsbach: Affiliation:
Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center

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Summary

The spleen has a unique combination of functions: immunologic, hematopoietic, filtration, and cellular storage. As an immunologic organ, the spleen has capabilities comparable to those in other secondary lymphoid tissues, with well-defined B- and T-cell zones, and is involved in both innate and adaptive immune responses. In this chapter, the embryology and histology of the spleen are reviewed. Changes associated with selected immunodeficiencies are covered as well as the broad range of hematopoietic disorders that may be encountered. Vascular, stromal, and selected infections are also considered in this selected review of splenic pathology.

Keywords

spleen splenomegaly leukemia lymphoma primary immunodeficiency immunity extramedullary hematopoiesis splenic development splenic sequestration Epstein–Barr virus reactive lymphoid hyperplasia splenic rupture storage disease red blood cell disorders hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis

Information

Type: Chapter
Information: Diagnostic Pediatric Hematopathology , pp. 166 - 182
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/9781108861861 [Opens in a new window]
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2026

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