The spleen is largely made up of lymphoid tissue and is located in the upper left quadrant of the abdomen. The spleen filters blood and manufactures lymphocytes and monocytes used in fighting infection (Figure 18). Lymphocytes possess limited phagocytic (ingestion and digestion of bacteria by phagocytes) properties. Phagocyte literally means to eat cells. This cell has the capability to ingest and destroy bacteria, cells, colloids and more. The lymphoctes role in disease and infection management is based on their ability to transform into other cells such as plasma cells and macrophages which assist in the clean-up process after infections. Monocytes are active in phagocytosis and are important in chronic infections.
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