What is the primary function of the spleen?

The primary function of the spleen is to filter blood and help fight infections. The spleen plays a crucial role in the immune system by identifying and responding to pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses, that enter the bloodstream. It contains white blood cells called lymphocytes that help to mount an immune response. Additionally, the spleen filters out old or damaged red blood cells and recycles iron from hemoglobin, which is essential for the production of new blood cells.

Understanding the spleen's role in both blood filtration and immune response underlines its significance in maintaining overall health. Other functions of bodily organs relate to hormone production, bile storage, and blood sugar regulation, but those are not primary functions of the spleen itself. This illustrates the specialized nature of different organs in the body and highlights the unique contributions of the spleen to the circulatory and immune systems.