Naked Science Forum
Life Sciences => Physiology & Medicine => Topic started by: AllenG on 05/09/2009 15:16:34
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Does the appendix really no longer serve a function in the human body?
And what was its function originally?
Many thanks,
--A
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I saw a prog on the TV a few weeks ago, in which it was said that the appendix does still have a function.
Maybe it will be on Youtube somewhere.
Maybe it was on the radio then...... here is the transcript http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/science/casenotes_tr_20090127.shtml (http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/science/casenotes_tr_20090127.shtml)
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Although it’s primary use may now be vestigial, doesn’t the appendix have secondary functions associated with immunity, to do with the lymphatic system? Also, I was under the impression that the appendix acts as a refuge for useful intestinal flora when disorders such as diarrhoea flushes them from the rest of the intestines.
Because people who have their appendix removed seem to suffer no ill effects the appendix has traditionally been considered to have no remaining function. And because people once commonly died from infections of the appendix, doctors routinely extracted it whenever the opportunity arrived, believing we are better off without it.
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What kind of function does it play with immunity?
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It seems to be a 'store' room of sorts, which can reboot the body's immune system.
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Let's hope that people who had an appendectomy don't need rebooting then.
Or all they'll see the world as a blue screen [;)]
I think the appendix is 100% vestigial, as folks without an appendix have no complications/consequences whatsoever