An<unk>  (from 'auto-' self, '-splen-' spleen, '-ectomy' removal) is a negative outcome of disease and occurs when a disease damages the spleen to such an extent that it becomes shrunken and non-functional. The spleen is an important immunological organ that acts as a filter for red blood cells, triggers phagocytosis of invaders, and mounts an immunological response when necessary. Lack of a spleen, called asplenia, can occur by<unk>  or the surgical counterpart, splenectomy. Asplenia can increase susceptibility to infection.<unk>  can occur in cases of sickle-cell disease where the misshapen cells block blood flow to the spleen, causing scarring and eventual atrophy of the organ.<unk>  is a rare condition that is linked to certain diseases but is not a common occurrence. It is also seen in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Autosplenectomy
Autologous immune enhancement therapy
Splenectomy
Thymus transplantation
Spleen transplantation
Donor lymphocyte infusion
Stem-cell therapy
Syngeneic stem cell transplantation