Treatment for ABO Incompatibility
ABO Incompatibility occurs when the immune system reacts to two different and non-compatible blood types being mixed together.
Blood types
Three of the major blood types are A, B, and O. These types are based on small molecules on the surface of the blood cells. The molecules of people having different blood types act as antigens (immune system triggers). Each individual has a combination of two of the various surface molecules.
The different blood types are A (containing AA or AO molecules), B (containing BB or BO molecules), AB, and O. Type O lacks any molecule.
People with one blood type form antibodies that will cause their immune systems to react when exposed to a completely different type of blood. When they require blood transfusions or organ transplants, their blood types must be matched in order to avoid any of the reactions caused by ABO incompatibility.
Type O blood is different
Since type O contains no surface molecules, it will not cause an immune response. Because of that, people with type O blood are considered “universal donors” and are able to donate to patients of any blood type. However, people with type O blood may only receive type O blood when they require transfusions or organ transplants.
ABO Incompatibility symptoms
When people are given the wrong blood types due to transfusions or organ transplants, they may experience these symptoms:
• Fever
• Bloody urine
• Back pain
• “Impending Doom” sensation
• Jaundice (yellow skin)
Tests used to determine incompatibility
• Blood tests on both patient and donor
• CBC (complete blood count)-shows damaged red blood cells and the presence of anemia
• Bilirubin-shows if levels are high
Possible complications
• Kidney failure
• Low Blood Pressure
• Death
Effective treatments for IBO Incompatibility
• Giving fluids intravenously
• Dispensing antihistamines (for allergic reactions)
• Prescribing steroids to treat swelling and allergies
• Prescribing blood pressure medication
Prevention:
ABO Incompatibility reactions can be prevented if the blood types of both the donor and the recipient are carefully tested before any transfusions or transplants take place.
When a person is given the wrong type of blood, it can result in serious problems, even causing death. However, if the right treatment is given in time, it will likely result in a full recovery.
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