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Originally Posted by chupster2
http://www.thehorse.com/viewarticle.aspx?ID=167
Although the spleen performs several important functions, it is not essential to life. That is, animals and humans can lead a healthy life after removal of the spleen. However, the reservoir of red cells contained within the spleen of the horse plays an important role during exercise. At the start of exercise, the spleen contracts and thereby releases the stored red cells into general circulation. In fact, up to one-third of the horse's red cells are stored within the spleen. One of the main functions of red cells is to transport oxygen from the lung to other parts of the body. Therefore, the increase in blood volume associated with splenic contraction provides a tremendous boost in the horse's capacity to transport oxygen. Indeed, this high capacity for oxygen transport contributes to the high athleticism of the horse. We know this to be true because following removal of the spleen, horses suffer a sharp decline in athletic ability.
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I think he will be lucky to live personally. If they remove the spleen (and how can they not) no way he can run. That's all assuming it hasn't metasticized anywhere else.
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Thank you. And may I suggest that a spleen with a cantaloup sized tumor on it may not work that well under the stresses of racing as well ??