Question

Person with blood group AB is considered as universal recipient because he has

• A. both A and B antigens on RBC but no antibodies in the plasma
• B. both A and B antibodies in the plasma
• C. no antigen on RBC and no antibody in the plasma
• D. both A and B antigens in the plasma but no antibodies.

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

both A and B antigens on RBC but no antibodies in the plasma

Answer 2

ABO blood groups are determined by the gene I (isoagglutinin). There are three alleles, IA, IB and 1� of this gene. IA allele is responsible for formation of A antigen, while IB allele is responsible for formation of B antigen. People with blood group A have the A antigen on the surface of their RBCs, and antibodies to antigen B in their plasma. Persons with blood group B have B antigen on their RBCs, and antibodies against A antigen in their plasma. Individuals with AB blood group have both antigen A and B on their RBCs, and no antibodies for either of the antigen in their plasma. Type O individuals are without A and B antigens on their RBCs, but have antibodies for both these antigens in their plasma. Individuals with blood group AB can receive blood of A, B or O group, while those with blood group O can donate blood to anyone.