Question

Persons with ‘AB’ blood group are called as “Universal recipients”. This is due to

• A. Absence of antibodies, anti-A and anti-B, in plasma
• B. Absence of antigens A and B on the surface of RBCs
• C. Absence of antigens A and B in plasma
• D. Presence of antibodies, anti-A and anti-B, on RBCs

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

To determine why individuals with 'AB' blood group are referred to as "Universal recipients," we need to understand the basic principles of blood group compatibility and the role of antigens and antibodies.

Blood groups are categorized based on the presence or absence of specific antigens on the surface of red blood cells (RBCs) and antibodies in the plasma. The main blood group system is the ABO system, which includes four main types: A, B, AB, and O.

• Individuals with blood group A have A antigens on their RBCs and anti-B antibodies in their plasma.
• Individuals with blood group B have B antigens on their RBCs and anti-A antibodies in their plasma.
• Individuals with blood group O have neither A nor B antigens on their RBCs but have both anti-A and anti-B antibodies in their plasma.
• Individuals with blood group AB have both A and B antigens on their RBCs but do not have anti-A or anti-B antibodies in their plasma.

The absence of anti-A and anti-B antibodies in the plasma of individuals with AB blood group means there are no antibodies to react against incoming A, B, AB, or O blood types, making them "universal recipients." They can safely receive blood from any ABO blood group because the transfused blood's antigens won't face any antibody-mediated rejection.

Now, let's evaluate the options provided:

• Absence of antibodies, anti-A and anti-B, in plasma: This is the correct reason. Since individuals with AB blood group lack these antibodies, they can safely receive blood from any ABO group.
• Absence of antigens A and B on the surface of RBCs: This describes blood group O, not AB.
• Absence of antigens A and B in plasma: Antigens are found on RBCs, not in plasma.
• Presence of antibodies, anti-A and anti-B, on RBCs: Antibodies are found in plasma, not on RBCs. This statement is also factually incorrect.

Thus, the most accurate explanation for why individuals with AB blood group are called "Universal recipients" is the absence of antibodies, anti-A and anti-B, in plasma.