Transfusion Immunology

Abstract

Transfusion as a transplantation of blood cells is a complex process with many immunological consequences which are variably related to the features of donors, recipients and blood components. In all allogeneic blood transfusions immune responses are stimulated by effecting innate and adaptive immunities. Red blood cell antigens, platelet antigens, neutrophil antigens and major histocompatibility complex antigens have important roles in blood transfusion. The interactions of the stimulated antibodies with these antigens have significant consequences that result in various clinical manifestations, some of them may be life-threating. More improved understanding of the immunological processes associated with transfusion will make obtaining more effective results possible in the management of the adverse effects of transfusion as for safety of the patient and transfusion applications.