ASCP Immunohematology (Blood Banking) 3

Question 1

Which blood product requires irradiation to prevent transfusion-associated graft-versus-host disease (TA-GvHD)?

Accepted Answer

Cellular components (RBCs, platelets) for immunocompromised patients

Answer

Irradiation inactivates donor lymphocytes in cellular components to prevent TA-GvHD in immunocompromised or HLA-matched recipients.

Question 2

Platelet concentrates should be stored at what temperature with continuous agitation?

Accepted Answer

20–24°C with continuous agitation

Answer

Platelets are stored at 20–24°C on a rotator to maintain function and prevent clumping; cold storage causes irreversible activation.

Question 3

An acute hemolytic transfusion reaction most commonly results from:

Accepted Answer

ABO incompatibility due to clerical error

Answer

ABO incompatibility from patient identification or labeling errors causes intravascular hemolysis via complement activation.

Question 4

Washed red blood cells are indicated for which patient population?

Accepted Answer

Patients with IgA deficiency who have anti-IgA antibodies

Answer

IgA-deficient patients with anti-IgA can have anaphylactic reactions to donor plasma IgA; washing removes plasma proteins.

Question 5

Which ABO blood type is the universal plasma donor?

Accepted Answer

Type AB

Answer

Type AB individuals have no ABO antibodies in their plasma, making AB plasma safe to transfuse to any ABO blood group recipient.

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