The spleen is an organ within the
lymphatic system and its primary function is to filter blood. However, the spleen also plays a key role in
immune responses as it detects pathogens within the blood and secretes
phagocytes to fight potential infection. Without these immune functions, individuals with isolated congenital asplenia are extremely susceptible to infection.
Streptococcus pneumoniae is a common bacteria that affects individuals with ICAS, often causes meningitis, sepsis, and
otitis media. ==References==