Free Republic
Browse · Search
News/Activism
Topics · Post Article

To: pepperdog

While it is true that those with O- (i.e., Rh negative O blood type) ideally should receive O-, if there is a shortage of O-, women who can't bear children and men will be given O+. There is a small risk of transfusion reaction with the Rh factor, but even if it occurs it is generally a mild one, unlike the life-threatening reactions one might get with ABO incompatibility (i.e., type O receiving A,B, or AB; type B receiving A or AB; or type A receiving B or AB). The reason Rh negative women of childbearing potential are excluded from receiving Rh positive blood is to prevent Rh immune sensitization and difficulties with future pregnancies. Also, please understand that transfusion reactions can still occur even with "compatible" blood types, due to the wide variety of red blood cell antigens know to exist.

Dr. W.


46 posted on 09/08/2006 8:22:58 PM PDT by greatvikingone
[ Post Reply | Private Reply | To 1 | View Replies ]


To: greatvikingone

Thank you for sharing your knowledge.


50 posted on 09/08/2006 8:33:44 PM PDT by pepperdog
[ Post Reply | Private Reply | To 46 | View Replies ]

Free Republic
Browse · Search
News/Activism
Topics · Post Article


FreeRepublic, LLC, PO BOX 9771, FRESNO, CA 93794
FreeRepublic.com is powered by software copyright 2000-2008 John Robinson