Immunohaematology

Immunohaematology

Red and white blood cells

Immunohaematology is a branch of hematology that studies antigen-antibody reactions and analogous phenomena as they relate to the pathogenesis and clinical manifestations of blood disorders. It is a critical field in transfusion medicine, organ transplantation, and autoimmune diseases.

Overview

Immunohaematology involves the study of blood groups, blood transfusions, and the immune system's response to foreign blood components. It is essential for ensuring the compatibility of blood transfusions and for understanding the mechanisms of hemolytic disease of the newborn and autoimmune hemolytic anemia.

Blood Groups

The most well-known blood group systems are the ABO blood group system and the Rh blood group system. These systems are determined by the presence or absence of specific antigens on the surface of red blood cells.

ABO Blood Group System

The ABO blood group system is based on the presence of A and B antigens. Individuals can have type A, B, AB, or O blood, depending on the combination of these antigens.

Rh Blood Group System

The Rh blood group system is primarily concerned with the presence or absence of the Rh factor, also known as the D antigen. Individuals are classified as Rh-positive or Rh-negative.

Blood Transfusion

Blood transfusion is a common medical procedure that involves transferring blood or blood components from a donor to a recipient. Immunohaematology plays a crucial role in ensuring the compatibility of donor and recipient blood to prevent adverse reactions.

Crossmatching

Crossmatching is a laboratory test performed before a blood transfusion to ensure compatibility between donor and recipient blood. It involves mixing a small sample of the recipient's serum with the donor's red blood cells to check for agglutination.

Hemolytic Disease of the Newborn

Hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN) is a condition that occurs when there is an incompatibility between the blood types of the mother and fetus. It is most commonly associated with the Rh blood group system.

Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia

Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is a condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the body's own red blood cells. Immunohaematology is involved in diagnosing and understanding the mechanisms of AIHA.

Related Pages

• Hematology
• Transfusion medicine
• Blood group
• Antigen
• Antibody