Question

If an incompatible transfusion is given,

a) what is the problem in terms of antigens and antibodies?

b) describe what happens to the incompatible donated cells and how this is potentially fatal.

Answer 1

If an incompatible transfusion is given,

a) Antibodies to A and B antigens are good at activating complement, transfusion of ABO incompatible red cells can cause breakdown of the cells in circulation and a strong inflammatory response. The end result can be kidney failure and even death.

b)  Blood transfusions between incompatible groups (such as A+ to O-) cause an immune response. This can lead to a serious transfusion reaction. The immune system attacks the donated blood cells , causing them to burst. Today , all blood is carefully screened.

An ABO incompatibility reaction can occur if you receive the wrong type of blood during a blood transfusion. It's a rare but serious and potentially fatal response to incompatible blood by your immune system. The incidence of transfusion reactions is approximately 1:5000 units transfused, and fatal transfusion reactions occur at a rate of 1:100,000 units transfused. Most severe reactions result from ABO incompatibility . The most common cause of transfusing ABO incompatible blood is clerical error.