Blood types are based on molecules called antigens and antibodies. Antigens are genetically unique molecules that occur on the surface of ALL cells. They enable our body to distinguish its own cells (self) from foreign materials (non-self). Antibodies are proteins that are secreted as part of a specific immune response whenever a foreign antigen is detected. Antibodies will bind to the antigens and mark them for destruction. More commonly, they repetitively bind two or more of the foreign cells together, forming large clumps. This is known as agglutination.
There are two main surface antigens for red blood cells (RBCs): antigens A and antigens B. The presence or absence of these antigens will specify your blood type. Antibodies are present in blood plasma and are specific to antigens that are not present on your own red blood cells. In simpler terms, you have antibodies opposite of the antigens you have.
Background:
Emily Johnson, a 25-year-old laboratory technician, comes to the laboratory for her routine blood typing. She is preparing for a surgical procedure and needs to know her blood type. Emily has no significant medical history and has never undergone any blood transfusions.
Desired Outcomes:
1. Determine Emily’s ABO blood group and Rh factor. 2. Educate Emily about the significance of blood
typing and the potential risks associated with mismatched blood transfusions.
3. Provide appropriate recommendations based on Emily’s blood type.
Findings:
Emily’s blood sample is tested for ABO blood group and Rh factor. Results indicate that Emily’s blood type is Antigen-A positive and Rh-positive.Questions:
1. Describe the antigens and antibodies present in each blood type.
2. Explain how the agglutination reaction is used to determine blood type.
3. Which blood type is considered the universal recipient, and which is considered the universal donor? Why?
4. Emily could donate blood to individuals with which blood type?
5. Can Emily receive blood from a Rh-negative donor in the event that a transfusion is required? Why or why not?
