Question

In professional cycling “blood doping” was reportedly performed by some of the athletes. Blood doping is the transfusion of one’s own blood back to oneself, when it is not needed. Thinking about the normal red blood cells, why would an individual do this procedure? What is the danger? Another method a cyclist might use is the administration of erythropoietin (EPO). Why would they use this as a medication?

Explain why type AB+ blood may be called the “universal recipient” for blood transfusions. Explain why this would not be true if the transfusion required 6 units (about 3 liters) of blood.