| Blood types are based on specific
proteins called antigens that are found on the surface of red
blood cells, and antibodies found in plasma. Antibodies
can recognize markers on foreign cells (those that are not the
body's own cells). When the blood of two people mixes during
a transfusion, the antibodies will act against any cells bearing
the wrong marker.
There are four basic blood groups:
- Group A with A antigen on the red cells and anti-B antibodies
in the plasma.
- Group B with B antigen on the red cells and anti-A antibodies
in the plasma.
- Group AB with both A and B antigens on the red cells and
neither anti-A nor anti-B in the plasma.
- Group O with no A or B antigens on the red cells and both
anti-A and anti-B antibodies in the plasma.
If you are a Group A person, you do not carry antibodies against
A markers. But you do have antibodies against Group B blood.
If you are a Group B person, you have antibodies against Group A
cells.
If you are a Group O, you have antibodies against both Group A and
B!
The antibody reaction that occurs when two different blood groups
are mixed, causes the foreign red cells to be destroyed (hemolysis).
This can lead to kidney damage and death. That is why matching blood
groups between donor and patient is so important before a transfusion
is given.
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Blood
Types & Activity
