What is the Spleen?

We've examined the heart, eye, brain, appendix — may as well add the spleen to this organ recital. Ever heard the expression about venting one's spleen? Way back in the old days, it was considered the source of anger, so expressing rage was "venting" the spleen. (Anti-creationists do this frequently when presented with the truth of creation and refutation of scum-to-sculptor evolution.) Odd how that "medical" view of the spleen persisted for quite a spell, but all we have left of that now is a strange phrase. In reality, though, the spleen is quite important.

Credit: National Institutes of Health
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This smallish organ is not something people tend to hear about all that often. Perhaps it's because if it has to be removed, it's not a death sentence. The spleen is quite important in filtering blood and doing other functions that our Creator saw fit to have installed in mammals.

The spleen! . . . What’s the spleen?

That might be how most people respond to any mention of this organ in our body. While most people have heard of the spleen, few could tell you what it does or even where it’s located.

That’s a pity since the spleen is an amazing organ that clearly shows the wisdom and handiwork of our Creator. (Although the spleen serves some very important functions, when necessary we can live without it—thanks to our accommodating liver.)

Let me spleen — I mean, explain — how to read the rest of the article. Just click on "The Mysterious Spleen", by Dr. David Menton.