Anatomy and Physiology II Practice Test

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Study for the Anatomy and Physiology II Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Prepare effectively for your exam!

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What type of blood does an individual with type O blood have in their plasma?

Anti-A and Anti-B antibodies
Only Anti-A antibodies
No antibodies
Only Anti-B antibodies

The correct answer is: Anti-A and Anti-B antibodies

Individuals with type O blood have both anti-A and anti-B antibodies in their plasma. This is due to the absence of A and B antigens on the surface of their red blood cells, which are the defining characteristics of blood types A and B, respectively. When incompatible blood types are mixed, the antibodies present in the plasma can react against the A or B antigens. Since type O blood lacks these antigens, it produces antibodies against them as a defense mechanism. This characteristic makes type O individuals universal donors, as their red blood cells can be given to patients of any blood type without causing an immune reaction, provided that the plasma is not given. However, these anti-A and anti-B antibodies would react against type A and type B blood if transfused, which is crucial to consider during blood transfusions.