Is O-negative blood the same as "panda blood"?

    O negative blood is generally referred to as "panda blood."

    Blood type refers to the antigen types present on the surface of blood components, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. O blood type is one classification within the ABO blood group system, characterized by the absence of both A and B antigens on the red blood cell membrane. O negative blood means that an individual has type O blood and is also Rh negative, indicating the absence of the D antigen. O Rh-negative blood refers to blood in which the patient's red blood cells lack A, B, and D antigens. Because O Rh-negative blood is rare—accounting for approximately 1% of the population—it is commonly known as "panda blood."

    Patients with O Rh-negative blood may require regular blood reserves under certain special circumstances, such as trauma or surgery, due to the rarity of their blood type, helping to prevent difficulties in securing compatible blood during transfusions. Pregnant women with Rh-negative O blood should be cautious during second or subsequent deliveries, as there is an increased risk of hemolytic disease; therefore, prenatal testing and preventive measures under medical supervision are necessary.

    Blood types are not only crucial for blood transfusions but also have significant applications in anthropology, genetics, forensic medicine, transplant immunology, and disease resistance. The Rh blood group system, in particular, is a relatively complex blood typing system. Thus, to determine whether one has "panda blood," it is sufficient to test for the Rh blood type.