What happens to blood cells during a hemolytic reaction?

During a hemolytic reaction, blood cells are indeed destroyed by the recipient’s immune system. This reaction occurs when the body identifies transfused blood cells as foreign. The immune response is triggered, leading to the activation of various immune cells, such as macrophages and T-cells, which target and eliminate the transfused red blood cells. This process can release hemoglobin into the bloodstream, leading to a series of complications, including anemia and potential kidney damage.

Understanding this process is essential, especially in the context of blood transfusions, where compatibility between the donor’s and recipient’s blood types is critical to preventing such adverse reactions. The other scenarios described do not accurately represent the physiological response seen during a hemolytic reaction.