What Are Leukocyte Antibodies?
Leukocyte antibodies are cells located within the body that attack white blood cells (leukocytes) that are found in the blood, bone marrow as well as lymphatic tissues. While these antibodies usually attack foreign bacteria that can be harmful to an individual’s health, leukocyte antibodies can sometimes target fetal cells during pregnancy, thereby resulting in pregnancy loss. As such, the body produces leukocyte antibodies in order to counteract this process. Leukocyte antibody cells are typically found in individuals receiving blood transfusions, in individuals receiving donated organs and in pregnant women.
