Effects of having no spleen
Foods to avoid without a spleen
Effects of having no spleen.
This guide is for patients who do not have a spleen or who have a spleen that doesn’t work.
People with an absent or dysfunctional spleen have an increased risk of developing severe infections such as pneumonia, septicaemia (blood poisoning) and meningitis.
If you or your child has an absent or dysfunctional spleen, please complete the details on the patient record card and ensure it is carried by the person affected at all times so that paramedics and other health professionals are aware of your condition, should you or your child be taken ill.
Splenectomy
Splenectomy is an operation to remove the spleen.
Doctors may commonly perform a splenectomy because the spleen:
- has been damaged in a serious accident
- has been damaged by disease
- contains a growth or tumour
- has become overactive
Other terms used such as:
Splenic dysfunction – when the spleen does not work properly.
Asplenia – absent or no spleen.
What does the spleen do?
The spleen helps the body fight against b