Blood Donor Question?

Question

What are some reasons why there might be a problem recieving a transfusion from a universal donor? (blood type O-)

would there be any ris of an allergic reaction?

Answer 1

The ABO group and Rh systems are not the only blood groups.  Problems may arise when a "universal donor" has more complex antibodies present.  There are quite a few more e.g. kell, Duffy etc.... however interactions with these tend to be fewer and rarer (due to a large number of them being "cold" antibodies), usually occurring when the patient has been previously transfused or pregnant causing a positive reaction.  

TRALI  (Transfusion related lung injury) - This is a reaction to Human Leukocyte Antigens (HLA systems) after a transfusion and causes non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema.

So yes an immune reaction is still possible if the patient and donor have not been typed properly for other existing antibodies and antigens.

Infection, blood may be contaminated with a disease e.g. HIV, Hep C etc, or bacterial contamination may have occurred.  Lots of haemophiliacs where infected with HIV in the early 1980's.

However, these things are very unlikely to happen as every donation is blood grouped and tested for pathogens.  And when a patient has a transfusion, blood and associated products which matchs theirs is chosen (cross match).  After a transfusion, patients will also be observed to make sure that no other unwanted reactions occur, and if they do are treated ASAP.