What is a potential risk associated with transfusing Rh-positive blood to an Rh-negative patient?

Transfusing Rh-positive blood to an Rh-negative patient can lead to the development of antibodies against the Rh factor, specifically the D antigen found on the surface of Rh-positive red blood cells. When an Rh-negative individual receives Rh-positive blood, their immune system may recognize the Rh-positive red blood cells as foreign. This recognition triggers the immune response, causing the patient to produce antibodies against the Rh factor.

This antibody production can have serious implications, especially in subsequent transfusions or during pregnancy. If an Rh-negative person, who has developed these antibodies from an initial exposure to Rh-positive blood, undergoes another transfusion of Rh-positive blood, they could experience a hemolytic transfusion reaction. In pregnant women, these antibodies can cross the placenta and attack the red blood cells of an Rh-positive fetus, leading to hemolytic disease of the newborn.

The other listed risks, such as allergic reactions, increased risk of infection, or elevated blood pressure, do not specifically relate to the immunological response triggered by Rh incompatibility. While allergic reactions can occur with blood transfusions, they are usually unrelated to the Rh factor. The risk of infection is more dependent on the blood product's safety and handling rather than the Rh status, and changes in blood