Rh blood group system
Rh blood group system
The Rh blood group system (pronounced "R-h") is one of the thirty-five known human blood group systems. It is the second most important blood group system, after ABO. The Rh blood group system consists of 49 defined blood group antigens, among which the five antigens D, C, c, E, and e are the most important.
Etymology
The Rh blood group system was first discovered in Rhesus monkeys. Hence, it is named after the Rhesus monkey, abbreviated as "Rh".
Rh factor
The Rh factor is an inherited protein found on the surface of red blood cells. If your blood has the protein, you're Rh positive. If your blood lacks the protein, you're Rh negative.
Rh positive and Rh negative
Rh positive means that D antigen is present on the red blood cells, whereas Rh negative means that D antigen is absent.
Rh incompatibility
Rh incompatibility can occur during pregnancy if a woman has Rh-negative blood and her baby has Rh-positive blood. Rh incompatibility can lead to a condition known as hemolytic disease of the newborn.
Related terms
- Antigen: A substance that the immune system can recognize and respond to.
- Antibody: A protein produced by the body's immune system when it detects harmful substances.
- Hemolytic disease of the newborn: A condition that occurs when there is an incompatibility between the blood types of the mother and the baby.
- Blood transfusion: The process of receiving blood products into one's circulation intravenously.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Rh blood group system
- Wikipedia's article - Rh blood group system
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