What will happen if you inject someone elses blood in not the same type?
If someone receives a blood transfusion with incompatible blood, it can lead to a serious and life-threatening condition called a transfusion reaction. Here's what happens when incompatible blood is transfused:
1. Immune Response: When incompatible blood is introduced into the recipient's body, the immune system recognizes the foreign red blood cells as foreign and mounts an immune response.
2. Antibody Binding: The recipient's immune system produces antibodies that bind to the antigens (markers) on the surface of the transfused red blood cells. This binding process is called agglutination.
3. Red Blood Cell Destruction: Once the antibodies bind to the red blood cells, the complement system, a part of the immune system, is activated. The complement system leads to the destruction of the transfused red blood cells, causing hemolysis (the rupture and breakdown of red blood cells).
4. Symptoms of Transfusion Reaction: The destruction of red blood cells can lead to various symptoms, including:
- Fever
- Chills
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Low blood pressure
- Confusion
5. Kidney Damage: The breakdown products from the hemolyzed red blood cells, such as hemoglobin, can accumulate in the bloodstream and damage the kidneys. This can lead to acute kidney failure.
6. Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC): In severe cases, a transfusion reaction can trigger DIC, a condition in which abnormal blood clotting occurs throughout the body. This can lead to widespread bleeding and organ damage.
7. Hemoglobinuria: The hemoglobin released from the destroyed red blood cells can be excreted in the urine, resulting in hemoglobinuria, causing the urine to appear dark red or brown.
8. Potential for Death: If the transfusion reaction is severe and not treated promptly, it can lead to shock, organ failure, and even death.
To prevent transfusion reactions, blood banks carefully cross-match donor blood with the recipient's blood to ensure compatibility. This process involves testing the recipient's blood for antibodies that may react with the donor's red blood cells. Only compatible blood is transfused to minimize the risk of adverse reactions.