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Can blood type change?

Published in Blood Transfusion 1 min read

Yes, in rare cases, blood type can change, although you typically have the same blood type throughout your life.

While your blood type is generally determined by genetics and remains constant, certain circumstances can lead to a change, though often temporary. These circumstances usually involve the bone marrow or immune system.

Here are some instances where blood type changes can occur:

  • Bone Marrow Transplants: Receiving a bone marrow transplant from someone with a different blood type can result in a change in your blood type to match the donor's. This is because bone marrow is where blood cells are produced.

  • Certain Leukemias: Some types of leukemia can affect blood cell production, potentially leading to altered blood type expression.

  • Infections: Certain infections can also sometimes temporarily alter blood type antigens.

It's crucial to note that not all apparent changes in blood type are genuine alterations. Sometimes, discrepancies can arise due to errors in testing or inaccurate record-keeping. Repeat testing is crucial to confirm any reported change in blood type.

In summary, while unusual, a person's blood type can change, typically related to bone marrow transplants or certain diseases affecting the blood.