Which description matches type AB blood?

Prepare for the Anatomy and Physiology II Exam with comprehensive questions and detailed explanations. Gain confidence with our tailored quizzes and maximize your exam performance!

Multiple Choice

Which description matches type AB blood?

In ABO blood groups, red blood cells display specific surface antigens (A and/or B), and the plasma contains antibodies against the antigens you don’t have. The combination of what antigens are present on the cells and which antibodies are in the plasma determines compatibility. Type AB is defined by having both A and B antigens on the red blood cell surface and having no anti-A or anti-B antibodies in the plasma. That lack of antibodies means AB individuals won’t attack transfused cells carrying A or B antigens, which is why they can receive any ABO type. The other descriptions point to different types: lacking both A and B antigens describes type O (with anti-A and anti-B antibodies in the plasma); having only A antigen with anti-B antibodies describes type A; having only B antigen with anti-A antibodies describes type B.

In ABO blood groups, red blood cells display specific surface antigens (A and/or B), and the plasma contains antibodies against the antigens you don’t have. The combination of what antigens are present on the cells and which antibodies are in the plasma determines compatibility.

Type AB is defined by having both A and B antigens on the red blood cell surface and having no anti-A or anti-B antibodies in the plasma. That lack of antibodies means AB individuals won’t attack transfused cells carrying A or B antigens, which is why they can receive any ABO type. The other descriptions point to different types: lacking both A and B antigens describes type O (with anti-A and anti-B antibodies in the plasma); having only A antigen with anti-B antibodies describes type A; having only B antigen with anti-A antibodies describes type B.

More practice questions