Which blood component can be transfused as a 'universal donor' product without routine ABO crossmatching?

• A Group O packed red cells
• B Group B cryoprecipitate
• C Group A platelets
• D Group AB plasma ✓

Explanation

Group AB plasma contains neither anti-A nor anti-D antibodies, so it can be given to recipients of any ABO group. Group O red cells are the universal red cell donor because they lack A and D antigens, but the reverse logic does not apply to plasma: group O plasma carries high-titre anti-A and anti-D and must be given cautiously. Platelets are usually ABO identical or compatible but carry residual red cells and require matching considerations.

Reference: Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 21st ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.