Definition of ABO incompatibility
ABO incompatibility is a reaction of the immune system that occurs if two different and not compatible blood types are mixed together.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
A, B, and O are the three major blood types. The types are based on small substances (molecules) on the surface of the blood cells. In people who have different blood types, these molecules act as immune system triggers (antigens).
Symptoms
The following are symptoms of transfusion reactions:
Treatment
Treatment may include:
Expectations (prognosis)
This can be a very serious problem which can even result in death. With the right treatment, a full recovery is likely.
Review
David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Stuart I. Henochowicz, MD, FACP, Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine, Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology, Georgetown University Medical School. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 5/13/2008
