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

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).

Each person has a combination of two of these surface molecules. Type O lacks any molecule. The
different blood types are:

• Type A (AA or AO molecules)

• Type B (BB or BO molecules)
• Type AB
• Type O
People who have one blood type form proteins (antibodies) that cause their immune system to react
against other blood types. Being exposed to another type of blood can cause a reaction. This is important
when a patient needs to receive blood (transfusion) or have an organ transplant. The blood types must be
matched to avoid an ABO incompatibility reaction.

For example:

• A patient with type A blood will react against type B or type AB blood
• A patient with type B blood will react against type A or type AB blood
• A patient with type O blood will react against type A, type B, or type AB blood
Because type O lacks any surface molecules, type O blood does not cause an immune response. This is
why type O blood cells can be given to patients of any blood type. People with type O blood are called
"universal donors." However, people with type O can only receive type O blood.

Since antibodies are in the liquid part of blood (plasma), both blood and plasma transfusions must be
matched to avoid an immune reaction.

Symptoms

The following are symptoms of transfusion reactions:

• Back pain
• Blood in urine
• Feeling of "impending doom"
• Fever
 • Yellow skin (jaundice)

Exams and Tests

• Bilirubin level is high

• Complete blood count (CBC) shows damaged red blood cells, may also show
mild anemia
• Lab testing of patient's and donor's blood shows that they are not compatible

Treatment

Treatment may include:

• Drugs used to treat allergic reactions (antihistamines)

• Drugs used to treat swelling and allergies (steroids)
• Fluids given through a vein (intravenous)
• Medicines to raise blood pressure if it drops too low

Outlook (Prognosis)

This can be a very serious problem which can even result in death. With the right treatment, a full
recovery is likely.

Possible Complications

• Kidney failure
• Low blood pressure needing intensive care
• Death

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if you have recently had a blood transfusion or transplant and you have the
symptoms listed above.

Prevention

Careful testing of donor and patient blood types before transfusion or transplant can prevent this problem.