ABO blood groups and thrombosis: a causal association, but is there value in screening?

Clarke, P. and Wu, O. (2011) ABO blood groups and thrombosis: a causal association, but is there value in screening? Future Cardiology, 7(2), pp. 191-201. (doi: 10.2217/fca.10.191)

Abstract

ABO(H) antigens are expressed on red cells and on von Willebrand factor. An association between groups other than O and thrombosis exists: an effect that is predominantly mediated by von Willebrand factor. Overall, the risk of venous thrombosis associated with non-O has been estimated at 1.75-fold, with a higher risk (∼∼2.4-fold) in those with the least O(H) antigen (a combined group of A¹A¹/A¹B/BB). Preliminary evidence also suggests that blood group may influence the venous thromboembolism risk associated with factor V Leiden. Overall, ABO(H) has a more modest effect on arterial disease, with a consistent effect observed in peripheral vascular disease and no influence evident with angina. A modest effect on myocardial infarction and stroke has been reported in some but not all studies. The potential mechanisms whereby blood group influences thrombosis, the limitations of current evidence and the current and future role of blood groups in identifying those at risk of arterial and venous disease is discussed.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Wu, Professor Olivia and Clarke, Dr Peter
• Authors: Clarke, P., and Wu, O.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Health Economics and Health Technology Assessment; College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Cancer Sciences
• Journal Name: Future Cardiology
• Publisher: Future Medicine Ltd.
• ISSN: 1479-6678
• ISSN (Online): 1744-8298