A patient with type B Rh-negative blood receives a transfusion of type A Rh-positive blood. Why does disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) occur in this ABO-Rh incompatible transfusion?

💡 Explanation

DIC arises from the formation of immune complexes that activate the coagulation cascade, due to the recipient's antibodies attacking the donor's antigens; because these complexes trigger widespread clotting, leading to depletion of clotting factors and subsequent bleeding. Therefore, DIC occurs, rather than other direct vascular effects.

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