A patient who was recently diagnosed with an obstructed bowel became septic from Proteus vulgaris. Prior to surgery, a routine type and screen was performed. Though this person typed as an A 2 years ago, his forward type is consistent with an AB individual, albeit weaker in strength with anti-B. What is the reason for this discrepancy?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The discrepancy is likely due to the acquired "B" phenomenon, which can occur in patients with certain bacterial infections, such as those caused by Proteus vulgaris. This can lead to a temporary change in blood group antigen expression.

A Patient Who Was Recently Diagnosed with an Obstructed Bowel