Two such major antigens, present on RBCs are denoted as A and B, accordingly:
The Rh (rhesus) factor is yet another antigenic determinant of blood group. Otherwise denoted as antigen D, an individual can be Rh+ (Rh positive) or Rh– (Rh negative), depending on the presence/absence of antigen D, on the surface of the RBCs.
The human body produces antibodies against antigens that are not normally present in the body. However, when antibodies are produced against “self” antigens (one’s own antigens), as these are perceived as “foreign” or “invaders”; then, it leads to a collection of diseases, termed as auto-immune diseases. Antibodies against A and B antigens occur naturally in blood, as follows:
Antibodies against the D antigen (Rh factor) are not naturally present in blood. However when an Rh negative individual, receives blood from an Rh positive individual, he/she begins producing antibodies against the D antigen, as this is perceived “foreign”.
The reaction between antigens and the corresponding antibodies, causes the agglutination/clumping (grouping) of RBCs, leading to their eventual destruction. This property is made use of in the laboratory, to determine an individual’s blood group.
Indications for performing Blood Typing include:
When an Rh negative mother carries an Rh positive baby, she gets exposed to some of the RBCs crossing over from the baby at the time of birth and begins producing antibodies against the D antigen. Although, the first child remains unharmed; however, during any subsequent pregnancy with an Rh positive fetus, the maternal antibodies cross-over into the fetal circulation, leading to destruction of the baby’s RBCs. This leads to a condition called erythroblastosis fetalis (or hemolytic disease of the newborn), which may prove fatal in severe cases.
Sample required: Blood
Process:
Preparation required: None
To avoid such reactions, the permissible recipient - donor pairs are:
Determination of the Rh status of a pregnant woman and that of the newborn helps in planning the use of anti D immunoglobulin, in order to prevent hemolytic disease of the newborn.
The laboratory test results are NOT to be interpreted as results of a "stand-alone" test. The test results have to be interpreted after correlating with suitable clinical findings and additional supplemental tests/information. Your healthcare providers will explain the meaning of your tests results, based on the overall clinical scenario.
In addition to A, B and D antigens, other antigens, called minor blood group antigens, are present on the surface of the red blood cells. These include Kidd, Kell, Duffy, and other Rh system antigens. Antibodies to these antigens do not occur naturally.
Certain medications that you may be currently taking may influence the outcome of the test. Hence, it is important to inform your healthcare provider, the complete list of medications (including any herbal supplements) you are currently taking. This will help the healthcare provider interpret your test results more accurately and avoid unnecessary chances of a misdiagnosis.
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