Rh blood groups
from class: Microbiology Definition Rh blood groups are classifications of blood based on the presence or absence of the Rh antigen, also known as the Rh factor, on the surface of red blood cells. The most significant antigen in this group is the D antigen.
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Predict what's on your test 5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test The presence of the D antigen makes a person Rh-positive, while its absence makes them Rh-negative. The Rh system is important for transfusions because incompatibility can lead to hemolytic reactions. Rh incompatibility between mother and fetus can cause hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN). The Coombs test, both direct and indirect, is used to detect antibodies against Rh antigens. Agglutination assays are commonly employed to determine an individual's Rh status. Review Questions What determines if a person is Rh-positive or Rh-negative? Why is it crucial to match Rh status during blood transfusions? How can Rh incompatibility affect pregnancy?
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