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Multiple Choice
Why is type AB blood considered the universal recipient?
A
Type AB blood can donate to all other blood types.
B
Type AB blood lacks A and B antigens.
C
Type AB blood contains both anti-A and anti-B antibodies.
D
Type AB blood lacks anti-A and anti-B antibodies.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of blood types: Blood types are determined by the presence or absence of specific antigens on the surface of red blood cells. The main antigens are A and B.
Recognize the characteristics of type AB blood: Type AB blood has both A and B antigens on the surface of its red blood cells.
Identify the antibodies present in type AB blood: Type AB blood does not have anti-A or anti-B antibodies in the plasma. This is crucial because antibodies can attack foreign antigens.
Explain why type AB blood is the universal recipient: Since type AB blood lacks anti-A and anti-B antibodies, it can receive blood from any other type without the risk of an immune reaction against A or B antigens.
Clarify the misconception about donation: Type AB blood is not a universal donor because it has both A and B antigens, which can cause immune reactions in recipients with different blood types.