Final answer:
Donors and recipients in a blood transfusion must be matched for the ABO blood group system to prevent severe immune reactions. Type AB individuals are universal recipients, while Type O negative is deemed the universal donor, but transfusions still require careful matching to avoid complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
Donors and recipients for a blood transfusion must indeed be matched for the ABO system of antigens. When considering a transfusion, it is critical because ABO blood groups have specific antibodies that can lead to severe reactions if given the wrong type. Type A blood has A antigens and anti-B antibodies, Type B blood has B antigens and anti-A antibodies, Type AB blood has both A and B antigens but does not have anti-A or anti-B antibodies making it a universal recipient, and Type O blood has neither A nor B antigens but has both anti-A and anti-B antibodies in its plasma, making it a universal donor. It is crucial to match the donor's ABO group with that of the recipient to avoid an immune response that can result from transferring unfamiliar antigens into someone's blood.
Type O negative blood is particularly significant as it is considered the universal donor and can be given to patients of any blood group in emergencies. However, because it carries antibodies against both A and B antigens, careful consideration of the volume transfused and the patient's condition is necessary.
The compatibility of ABO blood groups is fundamental. If the transfusion is not properly executed with a compatible blood type, the recipient's immune system might attack the donated blood cells, potentially leading to severe complications or even death.