No, blood groups generally do not change throughout a person's life. They are inherited and usually remain consistent. However, there are extremely rare exceptions.
When Blood Type Change Can Occur
While incredibly uncommon, a blood type can change under specific circumstances:
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Malignant conditions: Certain cancers, like acute myeloid leukemia (AML), have been associated with alterations in ABO blood group antigens. [Source: Multiple studies cited, including those referencing AML and blood group changes].
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Bone marrow transplantation: A bone marrow transplant can result in a change of blood type because the new bone marrow produces blood cells with a different antigen profile. This is not a change in the original blood type, but a replacement due to medical intervention.
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Other rare instances: Case reports describe unusual situations, such as after massive incompatible blood transfusions, where apparent blood type alterations have been observed. The mechanisms are often complex and not fully understood. [Source: Studies on blood type changes post-transfusion and other atypical occurrences].
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Gut bacteria: Recent research suggests that enzymes from gut bacteria might play a role in altering blood groups, though more research is needed to confirm this possibility and its clinical implications. [Source: Studies on gut bacteria and blood group enzymes].
It's crucial to remember that these situations are exceptionally rare. For the vast majority of people, their blood type remains the same throughout their lives.
Understanding Blood Types
Blood types are determined by the presence or absence of specific antigens (proteins) on the surface of red blood cells. These antigens are inherited genetically, and this genetic inheritance largely determines your blood type. The common ABO system (A, B, AB, O) and the Rhesus factor (positive or negative) are the most well-known components defining blood types. [Source: General medical knowledge on blood types, confirmed by multiple cited sources].
