Understanding the Põrna (Spleen): Functions, Health, and Diseases

Introduction – Why the Põrna Matters

If I told you that a small, fist-shaped organ tucked under your ribcage helps keep you alive by fighting infections and recycling your blood, you might be surprised. That’s your põrna the Estonian word for spleen. Many people don’t think about their spleen until something goes wrong with it, but this little organ works 24/7, quietly protecting your health. In this guide, we’ll explore what the põrna is, what it does, how to keep it healthy, and what happens if it becomes diseased or is removed.

What is the Põrna (Spleen)?

The põrna is located in the upper left side of your abdomen, just under the ribcage and behind the stomach.

• Size: About the size of a clenched fist in adults (12–14 cm long).

• Weight: Roughly 150–200 grams.

• Texture: Soft and spongy, covered by a thin protective capsule.

Structure:
The spleen has two main tissue types:

1. Red pulp – filters blood, removes old or damaged red blood cells.

2. White pulp – contains immune cells that detect and fight infections.

Functions of the Põrna – Explained Simply

Think of the põrna as part recycling plant, part security guard:

• Blood filter: Removes old, damaged red blood cells and recycles iron.

• Immune defense: Produces white blood cells and antibodies to fight infections.

• Blood storage: Acts as a reservoir for platelets and extra blood in case of injury.

• Pathogen detector: Screens blood for bacteria, viruses, and other threats.

How the Põrna Works with Other Organs

The põrna doesn’t work alone:

• With the immune system: White pulp lymphocytes team up with lymph nodes to destroy invaders.

• With the liver: Filters blood together and shares iron recycling duties.

• With bone marrow: Supports red and white blood cell production.

Common Põrna Disorders

• Splenomegaly: Enlarged spleen — often caused by infections, liver disease, or cancers.

• Ruptured spleen: Usually from trauma (car accidents, sports injuries).

• Hypersplenism: Overactive spleen that destroys blood cells too quickly.

• Spleen cysts or tumors: Rare but possible.

Causes of Põrna Problems

• Infections: e.g., mononucleosis, malaria, sepsis.

• Blood disorders: Sickle cell anemia, hemolytic anemia.

• Liver diseases: Cirrhosis, portal hypertension.

• Cancers: Leukemia, lymphoma.

• Trauma: Physical injury to the abdomen.

Symptoms of Põrna Issues

Watch for:

• Pain or fullness in the upper left abdomen

• Fatigue

• Easy bleeding or bruising

• Frequent infections

• Feeling full after small meals (enlarged spleen pressing on stomach)

Diagnosis – Tests and Scans

Doctors may use:

• Physical exam (feeling under left ribcage)

• Blood tests (CBC for anemia or low platelets)

• Ultrasound (to check size and structure)

• CT or MRI scans (for more detail)

Treatment Options

• Medications: To treat infections or underlying causes.

• Surgery (splenectomy): If the spleen is severely damaged or overactive.

• Lifestyle: Rest after trauma, vaccinations if immune function is affected.

Life Without a Põrna

If your spleen is removed:

• You can live normally but will have a weaker immune system.

• You’ll need extra vaccinations against certain bacteria.

• Some lifelong precautions (quick treatment for fevers, avoiding certain risks).

Preventing Põrna Problems

• Wear seatbelts to avoid injury in accidents.

• Protect your abdomen in contact sports.

• Stay up to date on vaccines.

• Treat infections early.

Case Studies – Real-Life Examples

• Athlete with ruptured spleen: Recovered fully after surgery but had to modify training.

• Traveler with malaria: Enlarged spleen treated after quick diagnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can you live without a põrna?
Yes, but your immune system will be less efficient.

Q: Is spleen pain always serious?
Not always, but it’s worth checking with a doctor.

Conclusion – Key Takeaways

Your põrna might be small, but it plays a big role in your health — filtering blood, fighting infection, and storing platelets. By understanding how it works and taking steps to protect it, you give yourself a better shot at long-term wellness. Listen to your body, get regular check-ups, and never ignore abdominal pain.