Journal of Blood & Lymph

Immunization for Patients with Asplenia: Importance and Recommendations

Abstract

Rodero MR, Martins CSF, Zuliani A, Roxo-Junior P

The spleen is an important component of the lympho-hematopoietic complex system, playing a relevant role in the defense against infections. Patients with functional or anatomic asplenia have an increased susceptibility to infections related to the absence or reduction of splenic function. This group of patients is particularly vulnerable to encapsulated bacteria. Therefore, the infectious complications associated with these pathogens are the most threatening in the scenario of spleen function impairment.
Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis and Haemophilus influenzae type b are encapsulated bacteria and are considered to be the main factors responsible for infections with high morbidity and mortality in asplenic patients. Thus, immunization against these microorganisms is an indispensable strategy in order to ensure the survival of these individuals.