Can Bombay phenotype blood group peoples donate to any ABO members?

Bombay phenotype (hh) individuals have a rare blood group that lacks the expression of both A and B antigens on their red blood cells. They possess a unique H antigen instead.

Bombay phenotype individuals can indeed donate blood to specific recipients within the ABO blood group system, although their donations are limited. They can serve as universal donors for specific patients:

1. Recipients with Bombay phenotype (hh): Bombay phenotype individuals (hh) can safely donate blood to other individuals with the same rare blood type. Both the donor and recipient lack A and B antigens, ensuring compatibility.

2. Recipients of Group O blood (OO): Group O individuals have neither A nor B antigens on their red blood cells. Since Bombay phenotype individuals also lack these antigens, their blood can be safely transfused to Group O recipients.

However, Bombay phenotype individuals cannot donate blood to individuals with A, B, or AB blood groups. This is because the recipients' immune systems would recognize the H antigen on the Bombay phenotype donor's red blood cells as foreign and produce antibodies against it, leading to a potential hemolytic reaction.

Despite their limited donation options within the ABO blood group system, Bombay phenotype individuals play a crucial role in supporting the rare blood community. Their donations are essential for those with the same hh phenotype or rare blood types with corresponding antibody needs.