Blood transfusions are a critical medical intervention in cases of severe blood loss, childbirth complications, surgeries, and serious illnesses. However, experts warn that relying solely on blood grouping can lead to dangerous and potentially fatal complications if donated blood is not adequately screened for compatibility.
Medical laboratory scientists Adedoye David and Olaiya Oluwatoba highlighted that while establishing a donor’s blood type is vital, it is not enough to guarantee that the blood is safe for recipients. They explained that donated blood must undergo additional laboratory testing, including crossmatching and screening for transfusion-transmissible infections, before being approved for use.
Blood grouping identifies a person’s ABO and Rhesus (Rh) blood types but does not confirm compatibility between a donor and a recipient. Crossmatching is necessary to test blood samples from both the donor and the recipient for potential reactions that could occur due to antigens and antibodies. Such reactions can lead to the destruction of red blood cells and result in serious transfusion reactions.
Additionally, the scientists cautioned against the common assumption that blood group O is universally safe for transfusion. While O-type red blood cells are often utilized in emergencies, some donations of whole blood from group O may contain anti-A and anti-B antibodies, which could result in haemolysis in recipients.
Ensuring that blood does not transmit infections is another critical aspect of blood safety. The experts pointed to infections such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, HIV, and syphilis, which must be screened before blood is released for transfusion. They noted that hospitals and blood banks risk becoming conduits for infection if screening is inadequate.
Although enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is a preferred method for screening, there are instances where infections can go undetected during the window period. Nucleic acid testing (NAT), where available, can help detect some infections more promptly by identifying viral genetic material.
Transfusions of incompatible blood can lead to a haemolytic transfusion reaction, which may manifest as an acute or delayed complication. Acute reactions can present suddenly with symptoms like fever, chills, and low blood pressure, while delayed reactions may occur days or weeks after the transfusion.
The scientists emphasized that strict adherence to laboratory protocols and quality-control measures is essential to mitigating these risks. They referenced the International Organisation for Standardisation’s ISO 15189 guidelines, which establish quality and competence requirements for medical laboratories.
Despite the potential for blood shortages in hospitals, the experts insisted that such conditions should not compromise essential safety procedures. Any emergency release of blood should strictly follow established protocols, with appropriate documentation.
To promote better understanding of blood safety, the scientists urged blood donors and patients’ families to inquire about blood bank protocols, including donor eligibility, screening for infections, and overall safety measures. Enhanced communication among laboratory professionals, donors, and patients’ relatives is vital for strengthening public trust in blood transfusion services.
