A guide for people without a working spleen
What you need to do to protect yourself.
Splenectomy is an operation to remove the spleen. Doctors may perform a splenectomy because the spleen has been damaged, or is diseased, or contains a growth or tumour, or because it is the site of extensive breakdown of red blood cells.
Some people are born without a spleen or their spleen does not work properly. They will have the same problems as someone whose spleen has been removed.
Some people are born without a spleen or their spleen does not work properly. They will have the same problems as someone whose spleen has been removed.
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This leaflet describes the signs and symptoms to look out for and gives advice on how to get the MenC vaccine.