Bombay blood group

Bombay Blood Group is a rare blood group system that has an interesting history and significant importance in the field of transfusion medicine. This blood group is characterized by the absence of ABO blood group antigens on the red blood cells. It is also known as the hh blood group or the Oh phenotype.

History

The Bombay blood group was first discovered in Bombay (now Mumbai), India, in 1952 by Dr. Y.M. Bhende and his colleagues. They identified this unique blood group in a patient who had a peculiar reaction to a standard blood transfusion. Since its discovery, the Bombay blood group has been identified in individuals from various parts of the world, though it remains extremely rare.

Genetics

The ABO blood group system is determined by the presence or absence of two antigens, A and B, on the surface of red blood cells. The Bombay blood group occurs due to a mutation in the H gene (FUT1), which is responsible for the production of the H antigen, a precursor needed for the formation of A and B antigens. Individuals with the Bombay phenotype lack the H antigen, and as a result, they do not express the A or B antigens, regardless of the presence of genes that would normally produce these antigens. This condition is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner.

Prevalence

The Bombay blood group is extremely rare. It is more commonly found in South Asia, especially among individuals of Indian descent, but it has also been identified in individuals from other regions. The prevalence is estimated to be about 1 in 10,000 in India and 1 in 1,000,000 in Europe.

Clinical Significance

The absence of A, B, and H antigens in individuals with the Bombay blood group has significant implications for blood transfusion and organ transplantation. They cannot receive blood from donors with any of the common ABO blood types and can only receive blood from other individuals with the same hh phenotype. This makes finding compatible blood donors extremely challenging for patients with this blood group, especially in emergency situations.

Blood Donation and Transfusion

Awareness and identification of the Bombay blood group are crucial for the safe transfusion of blood. Blood banks and transfusion services must screen for this blood group to avoid transfusion reactions. Individuals with the Bombay blood group are encouraged to donate blood to increase the availability of compatible blood for others with this rare phenotype.

Conclusion

The Bombay blood group is a rare and unique blood type that poses challenges in blood transfusion and organ transplantation. Its discovery has not only expanded our understanding of the genetic complexity of blood groups but also highlighted the importance of genetic diversity within populations. Awareness and proper identification of this blood group are essential for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of transfusion medicine.

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