Morphological Changes In Human Fetal Spleen At Different Gestational Ages

ABSTRACT

Background: The purpose of the study was desired to investigate and observe the variations in the morphology ofspleen in human fetuses. The spleen is the largest secondary lymphoid organ, in the fetal stage it also performsthe role of haematopoiesis. It acts as a blood filter, and also acts as storage site for iron, erythrocytes, andplatelets.Materials and Methods: This study has been carried out on spleen of 40 formalin preserved human fetuses (19males and 21 females) of different gestational ages, in the Department of Anatomy, Government Medical College,Haldwani over a period of two years (i.e. 2014- 2016), with due regards on ethical grounds. Various grossparameters of spleen such as its location, shape, relations, notches & fissures and ligaments were observed andthe results were statistically analyzed.Results: Spleens in all the fetuses was located in the left hypochondrium. 60% of the fetal spleens were wedgeshaped. While stomach was related to the spleen in all the gestational ages, kidney and left colic flexure were notrelated to the spleen in the early age of the fetus. Liver and left adrenal gland also showed relations with the fetalspleen. Maximum number of notches was present in the superior border followed by inferior border and lateralpole. Fissures were also seen in 11 spleens.Conclusion: Knowledge about prenatal ontogenesis of the spleen will help to understand the mechanisms ofpathology in the organ and create methods of diagnosis and prevention.