PRELIMS BITS:
The Bombay blood group, discovered in Mumbai in 1952 by Dr. Y.M. Bhende, is extremely rare. It lacks the H antigen, which is essential for the ABO system’s A and B antigens to attach to red blood cells.
People with this blood group have antibodies against A, B, and H antigens, causing agglutination in all ABO blood types.
Key Features:
- Discovery: Identified in 1952 by Dr. Bhende in Mumbai.
- Characteristics: Absence of H antigen leads to antibodies against A, B, and H antigens.
- Clinical Issue: Individuals cannot receive blood from any ABO group, including type O, which contains the H antigen. They can only receive blood from another Bombay blood group donor.
The Bombay blood group is very rare and requires specialized care for blood transfusions due to its unique compatibility needs.