By Writing It’s in Cherbourg
Published on 15 Feb 21 at 12:24
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Donating blood is essential to save other lives.
But do you really know what is your blood made of and what’s the point of giving it away?
Small biology course.
Blood is living tissue made up of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets, bathed in a fluid called plasma.
He plays an essential role in many vital functions like breathing, nutrition, defense, regulation …
The different elements of blood bear individual identity marks. These are molecules, antigens, which vary from person to person.
These differences define blood groups.
Why is my blood not compatible with all the others?
The most important features for transfusion are the ABO and Rhesus systems, which determine blood compatibility between two individuals.
Humans have antigen A, antigen B, both, or neither. They are thus classified in one of the 4 blood groups A, B, AB or O.
Each blood group also has antibodies that will destroy incompatible cells. For example, groups A, will have B antibodies. Mixing the two blood groups can therefore have dramatic consequences for the transfused.
Finally, the Rhesus system indicates the presence or absence of the D antigen which determines whether an individual is of rhesus positive (+) or negative (-).
The combination of the two systems allows classification in 8 blood groups: A +, A-, B +, B-, AB +, AB-, O + and O-.
–You follow ?
Who can I give to?
In the majority of cases, the transfused receive blood from the same group. But there are exceptions:
- For the transfusion of red blood cells, individuals of group THE- can give to any recipient: they are called ” universal donors ».
- Conversely, group individuals AB + can receive red blood cells of all blood groups. They are said ” universal recipients ».
- For plasma transfusion, the rules of compatibility are different. Plasma from donors AB group suitable for all recipients: they are ” universal donors de plasma “. And since they only represent 4% of the population, they are particularly sought after for this type of donation.
- Plasma from individuals of group B- (1% of the population) is also in great demand. Conversely, the people of group O can receive plasma of all blood groups.
–Leave for employees
Some collective agreements provide for the granting of an absence authorization to facilitate access to blood donation for their employees. Check with your employer.
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I donated my plasma on Monday and got my half day. Don’t hesitate to ask your HR!
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