The morphological and functional rationale for the potential compensatory role of disseminated postsplenectomy splenosis in an experiment

Abstract

Aim to investigate disseminated post-splenectomy splenosis (DPSS) by creating an experimental model and analysing the timing, frequency, morphological features, and functional capabilities of splenosis nodules. Materials and methods The experiment involved surgical modelling of DPSS in white laboratory rats and a sham operation group. The rats were euthanized at different time points after the surgery, and the DPSS foci were examined histologically. Functional assessments were conducted by evaluating phagocytic parameters and morphological examination of erythrocytes. Results DPSS foci were observed in the majority of rats (79%) at various time points after the surgery. The foci appeared as dark cherry-coloured round formations of different sizes and were commonly found on the greater omentum, stomach serous membrane, colon serous membrane, and root of the mesentery. Histological examination revealed a cell composition similar to the spleen, including white pulp components and a high number of plasma cells. However, the typical histological architecture of the spleen was not preserved in the DPSS nodules. The phagocytic index and phagocytic number were within normal range in rats with DPSS after 30 days, indicating normal phagocytic activity. However, after splenectomy, these parameters were lower compared to the DPSS group. The opsonic index was significantly below normal levels in the early stages after splenectomy but reached normal values later on. Morphological examination of erythrocytes showed poikilocytic deviations and increased Howell-Jolly bodies, indicating inadequate utilization of degenerative forms of erythrocytes by DPSS nodules. Conclusion The DPSS showed partial functional activity in experiment, including phagocytic capabilities, although the histological architecture of the spleen was not fully preserved. The study provides valuable insights into the characteristics of DPSS nodules and their potential functional role.