Splenectomy predispose to which infection
**Core Concept**
The spleen plays a crucial role in the immune system, particularly in filtering the blood and storing lymphocytes. Its removal, or splenectomy, can lead to an increased risk of infections, especially those caused by encapsulated bacteria.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The spleen helps to filter out encapsulated bacteria from the bloodstream, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Neisseria meningitidis. After splenectomy, patients are more susceptible to infections from these bacteria due to the lack of splenic function. This is because the spleen's filtering ability is compromised, allowing these bacteria to reach the bloodstream and cause infection.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option is incorrect because the spleen's primary function is not to fight viral infections. While the spleen does play a role in the immune response, its removal does not directly predispose patients to viral infections.
* **Option B:** This option is incorrect because the spleen's role in filtering the blood is not directly related to the risk of fungal infections. While patients with compromised immune systems may be more susceptible to fungal infections, splenectomy is not a primary risk factor.
* **Option C:** This option is incorrect because the spleen's function in removing old or damaged red blood cells is not directly related to the risk of infections. While the spleen does play a role in the removal of old red blood cells, its removal does not directly predispose patients to infections.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Patients who have undergone splenectomy should be vaccinated against encapsulated bacteria, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae type b, to reduce their risk of infection.
**Correct Answer:** C. Infections caused by encapsulated bacteria