Immunohaematology

Immunohaematology is a branch of haematology that studies the interaction between the immune system and blood cells. This field is primarily concerned with the immunological properties of blood, including the study of blood groups, blood transfusion, and the immune response to blood cell and blood product antigens.

Overview[edit | edit source]

Immunohaematology, also known as blood banking, is a vital part of transfusion medicine. It involves the study of antibodies and antigens present in the blood, and their role in blood transfusion reactions and autoimmune diseases.

Blood Groups[edit | edit source]

The most well-known aspect of immunohaematology is the study of blood groups, which are determined by specific antigens on the surface of red blood cells. The most commonly known blood groups are the ABO blood group system and the Rh blood group system.

ABO Blood Group System[edit | edit source]

The ABO blood group system is the most important blood group system in human blood transfusion. The ABO blood group system includes four different blood groups: A, B, AB, and O. Each group is characterized by a specific set of antigens on the surface of red blood cells.

Rh Blood Group System[edit | edit source]

The Rh blood group system is the second most significant blood group system in human blood transfusion. It is named after the Rhesus monkey, in which it was first discovered. The most important antigen in this system is the D antigen. Individuals who have this antigen are referred to as Rh positive, while those who lack it are referred to as Rh negative.

Blood Transfusion[edit | edit source]

Immunohaematology plays a crucial role in blood transfusion. It ensures the compatibility of the blood types of the donor and the recipient to prevent transfusion reactions. These reactions can occur if the recipient's immune system attacks the donor blood cells, which can happen if the recipient has antibodies against the donor's blood group antigens.

Autoimmune Diseases[edit | edit source]

Immunohaematology also studies autoimmune diseases that affect the blood. These diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own blood cells. Examples of such diseases include autoimmune haemolytic anaemia and immune thrombocytopenic purpura.