Final answer:
Cells with incompatible antigens undergo destruction in a type II hypersensitivity reaction. Hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN) can be caused by Rh incompatibility and ABO incompatibility. Preventing the formation of antibodies in Rh- mothers can help prevent HDN.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cells that possess incompatible antigens in a type II hypersensitivity reaction undergo destruction. One example of this reaction is hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN), which can be caused by both Rh incompatibility and ABO incompatibility.
HDN occurs when maternal antibodies cross the placenta and target fetal red blood cells for lysis. In the case of Rh incompatibility, if an Rh- woman carries an Rh+ baby, her immune system may generate anti-Rh antibodies that can destroy the fetal RBCs. Preventing the formation of these antibodies can be achieved through an injection of Rho(D) immune globulin.