Blood Groups

What are blood transfusions?

Blood transfusions are when blood from another person is introduced into a patient's body.

When was the first blood transfusion?

The first blood transfusion was carried out in 1818.

Who discovered blood transfusion?

James Blundell carried out early blood transfusions, publishing his paper 'Experiments on the Transfusion of Blood by the Syringe' in 1818.

How were blood transfusions performed before the twentieth century?

Because blood clotted when it was removed from the body, early blood transfusions were directly donor-to-patient, and the donor had to be present.

Why were blood transfusions unsuccessful before 1901?

Only 50% of transfusions were successful before 1901.. There were 3 key problems:

• ❖ As blood could not be stored, transfusions involved the donor being directly attached to the recipient by a tube.
• ❖ It could often lead to death through infection.
• ❖ Patients' bodies rejected the new blood because they were given the wrong blood type, as blood groups had yet to be discovered.

How did the discovery of blood groups help in transfusions?

There were 3 key discoveries that led to more successful blood transfusions.

• ❖ In 1901, Karl Landsteiner discovered the A, B and O blood groups.
• ❖ In 1902, he discovered another blood group, AB.
• ❖ In 1907, it was discovered that type O blood was 'universal' and could safely be given to anyone.

What was the impact of blood transfusions?

Successful and safe blood transfusions helped with medical treatments in 3 main ways.

• ❖ They could be used in surgery.
• ❖ They could help patients suffering from blood disorders such as anaemia or leukaemia.
• ❖ They could be used to help people with liver problems, such as jaundice.