In practice, the use of the terms "universal recipient" and "universal donor" in blood typing is misleading and dangerous, because antigens other than ABO can cause transfusion reactions.

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This is because although individuals with type AB blood can receive any blood type (hence the term "universal recipient"), they can still have an immune reaction to non-ABO antigens present in the donor blood. Similarly, individuals with type O blood are considered "universal donors" because their red blood cells do not have A or B antigens, but they may still have antibodies against non-ABO antigens present in the recipient's blood. Therefore, it is important to consider other factors beyond just ABO blood typing when selecting donor blood for transfusions.

In Practice, the Use of the Terms "Universal Recipient" and "Universal