Which blood type is referred to as the universal recipient?

The universal recipient blood type is Type AB because individuals with this blood type have both A and B antigens on the surface of their red blood cells. This means that they can receive blood from any other blood type (A, B, AB, or O) without the risk of an immune reaction since their bodies do not produce antibodies against A or B antigens.

In contrast, Type O blood, often considered a universal donor for its lack of A and B antigens, can only receive from itself. Type A individuals can accept Type A and Type O blood but would have an immune response to Type B, and similarly, Type B individuals can accept Type B and Type O blood but would reject Type A. Thus, Type AB is unique in its ability to safely receive blood from all types, making it the universal recipient.