RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Revisiting the Universal Donor: Does Exposure to O Blood Products Affect Patient Outcomes?

Doctors are investigating if having transfusions of 'universal donor' O blood products could be harmful for some patients, especially those with A, B, or AB blood types. While O blood is often used when there's an urgent need or limited supply, some early research suggests it might lead to poorer outcomes compared to receiving blood of your exact same type. This study specifically focuses on patients with a blood disorder called Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) who need regular red blood cell transfusions. The aim is to understand if this practice, which is common due to hospital needs, could increase risks for patients, potentially leading to widespread changes in how blood transfusions are given.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

McMaster University

Enrolment target

Start

17 Oct 2023

Estimated completion

01 Dec 2025

Myelodysplastic Syndrome

What is this study about?

Imagine you need a blood transfusion. Normally, doctors try to match your blood type exactly, like-for-like. However, sometimes, especially in emergencies or when certain blood types are scarce, 'universal donor' O blood is used for people with other blood types (A, B, or AB). This has been a common practice for a long time because O blood is generally considered safe for everyone.

Recently, some early research has hinted that receiving O blood when you have a different blood type might not always be the best option for certain patients. For example, some studies suggest it could be linked to more complications or even a higher risk of death in hospitals. This has raised questions among doctors about whether this long-standing practice could actually be causing harm to some patients.

This study wants to explore this possibility further. It focuses on patients with a condition called Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), which affects how your body makes blood cells and often requires regular transfusions. Researchers will look at existing medical information to see if there's a clear link between receiving O blood that doesn't exactly match your own blood type and any health problems. If these initial findings are confirmed, it could change how transfusions are given, not just in the UK but worldwide.

Key takeaways

Researchers are investigating if 'universal donor' O blood transfusions might carry risks for some patients.
The study focuses on people with Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) who have A, B, or AB blood types.
It aims to see if receiving non-matching O blood could lead to health problems.
Findings could change how blood transfusions are managed globally.
This research uses existing medical data and won't affect your current treatment.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adults aged 18 or older who have been diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS). To join, your MDS should be stable and not have progressed to leukaemia. You must also have blood type A, B, or AB – people with blood type O cannot take part.

You need to be someone who regularly receives red blood cell transfusions, specifically needing at least two units every six weeks or more often. All your transfusions should be happening in an outpatient clinic, meaning you don't stay overnight in the hospital for them.

Unfortunately, you wouldn't be able to join if you can't give your clear permission (informed consent), if you have blood type O, or if you need special types of blood products because you've had reactions to transfusions in the past.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Do you have Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) that is stable?
Is your blood type A, B, or AB (not O)?
Do you get regular red blood cell transfusions (at least 2 units every 6 weeks or more often)?
Are your transfusions received as an outpatient (not staying overnight)?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

The information provided is about a research study looking at existing patient data, not a new clinical trial where people receive different treatments. Therefore, taking part in this 'study' would not involve any direct changes to your medical care, extra visits, assessments, or medications. It's about researchers analysing information that has already been collected as part of your standard care. There is no specific duration of participation for individual patients as their existing medical records are being reviewed.

Potential risks and benefits

Since this study involves looking at existing medical records rather than trying a new treatment, there are no immediate personal risks or benefits to you as a patient. Your medical care will continue as normal. The potential benefit is for future patients, as the study's findings could help improve transfusion practices and make them safer. If this were a new clinical trial, you would always have the right to withdraw at any time without it affecting your usual care.

Locations (1)

Juravinski Hospital and Cancer Centre
Verified postcode
Hamilton, Canada· Recruiting

Common questions

What is 'Myelodysplastic Syndrome' (MDS)?

MDS is a condition where your body doesn't make enough healthy blood cells, often leading to anaemia and requiring blood transfusions.

What does 'ABO non-identical RBCs' mean?

It means receiving red blood cells (RBCs) from someone with a different main blood type than your own, for example, a person with type A blood receiving type O blood.

Why would someone receive non-identical blood?

This usually happens when there's an emergency, a shortage of your specific blood type, or for other medical reasons, as O blood is often considered a 'universal donor'.

Will this study change my transfusions now?

No, this study is looking at existing patient information. It won't change how you currently receive transfusions.

Who is eligible for this study?

Adults aged 18 and over with stable MDS, blood type A, B, or AB, who need regular outpatient transfusions. People with blood type O cannot join.

How to find out more

Donald Arnold

arnold@mcmaster.ca 905 525-9140 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.