The primary organ responsible for filtering blood is the kidney.
The Kidneys: Your Body's Filtration System
The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine, below the ribs. Their main function is to filter waste products from the blood and help maintain a healthy balance of water, salts, and minerals. Blood enters the kidneys, where it is filtered; waste products are removed and excreted as urine. [1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 10] This process is vital for maintaining overall bodily health. The kidneys are integral to the urinary system, whose primary function is blood filtration and urine production. [6]
The Spleen: A Secondary Role in Blood Filtration
While the kidneys are the primary blood filter, the spleen also plays a significant role. The spleen, a small organ, filters blood as part of the immune system. It removes old or damaged red blood cells and microorganisms. [5, 9] However, its filtering action is different from the comprehensive filtration performed by the kidneys. It focuses more on removing specific blood components and combating infections.
Liver: Additional Filtering Capabilities
The liver also filters blood, breaking down toxins such as alcohol and drugs. [5] While not its primary function, the liver plays a crucial role in detoxification, removing harmful substances from the bloodstream. However, the liver's filtering action is distinct from the kidneys', focusing on metabolic processes and waste removal.
In summary: The kidneys are the main organs responsible for filtering blood, while the spleen and liver also contribute to blood filtration in more specialized ways.
