Sculpting life: Studying the intricacies of human fetal spleen morphology during development

Abstract

Introduction: The spleen, a crucial lymphoid organ, plays a significant role in blood cell production and regulation. Emerging from mesodermal cells in the dorsal mesogastrium during the fourth embryonic week, the spleen is located in the left upper quadrant alongside the tenth rib. This study investigates morphological variations in human fetal spleens, serving as blood filters and storage sites for iron, erythrocytes, and platelets. This study aimed to assess morphological measurements of human fetal spleen development. Materials and Methods: Sixty formalin-preserved fetuses (33 male, 27 female) of varying gestational ages were examined over a three-year period (2020-2023) at the Anatomy Department, Govt. Medical College Srinagar Garhwal, ensuring adherence to ethical guidelines. Gross characteristics such as position, shape, relations, notches & fissures, and ligaments were assessed and statistically analyzed. Results: All fetal spleens were located in the left hypochondrium, with 50% exhibiting a wedge shape. The stomach consistently associated with the spleen, while no relationship was observed between the kidney, left colic flexure, and spleen in early fetal stages. The liver exhibited connections with the fetal spleen. Notches were most prevalent along the superior border, followed by the inferior border and lateral pole, with 27 spleens showing fissures. Conclusions: Studying prenatal spleen development aids in understanding organ pathologies, thereby enhancing diagnostic and preventive techniques. Keywords: Fetal Spleen, Wedge Shape, Notches, Fissures