I remember learning about the spleen, but being information I don't access often, it has been forgotten. What I do recall:
Not sure of it's location, perhaps upper left abdominal cavity?
It contains a lot of blood and can slightly extend ones life in the event of major blood loss, but not sure exactly how it does this.
One can live without it.
What I found in a web search:
http://www.mamashealth.com/organs/spleen.asp(quote)
The human spleen is an organ that creates lymphocytes for the destruction and recycling of old red-blood cells. The spleen is also a blood reservoir. It supplies the body with blood in emergencies such as a bad cut. The speen is also the location where white blood cells trap organisms.
The spleen is shaped like a loose fist and is tucked under the left side of the diaphragm.
The average weight of an adult spleen is 0.44 lbs. During and after digestion, the size of the spleen increases. Infection of malaria or mono can also cause the spleen to increase in size.
If the increase in size is significant, the spleen can rupture. If rupturing occurs, immediate medical care is necessary. You may need emergency surgery to control the bleeding.
Where is the Spleen located?
The spleen is located in the upper-left part of your abdomen. It is protected by your rib cage.
Can the Spleen be removed?
Yes. If the spleen is ruptured, it can be removed. The spleen can also be removed because of certain kinds of cancers.
(end quote)
