Blood group systems Flashcards
define blood group system
Blood Group Systems refer to the classification of human blood based on specific antigens present on the surface of red blood cells (erythrocytes)
mention the 2 most important blood groups
- ABO blood group system
- Rhesus factor (Rh) blood group system
What are the four main blood types in the ABO system?
The four main blood types are A, B, AB, and O.
Which antigens are present on the surface of type A red blood cells?
Type A red blood cells have A antigens (also known as agglutinogens) on their surface.
If someone has type B blood, which antibodies are naturally present in their plasma
anti-A antibodies in their plasma.
Can a person with type O blood donate to anyone? Why or why not?
Yes, individuals with type O blood are universal donors because their red blood cells lack both A and B antigens. However, they can only receive type O blood.
What happens if a person with type A blood receives a transfusion of type B blood?
If a person with type A blood receives type B blood, agglutination (clumping) occurs due to the interaction between anti-B antibodies in the recipient’s plasma and B antigens on the transfused red blood cells. This can be dangerous
Which blood type is considered the universal recipient? Why?
Type AB is the universal recipient because individuals with type AB blood have no naturally occurring antibodies against A or B antigens. They can receive blood from any ABO group.
What is the Rh factor, and how does it relate to the ABO system?
The Rh factor (Rhesus factor) is another antigen present on red blood cells. It is either positive (Rh+) or negative (Rh-). The ABO system and Rh factor are independent, but they can interact. For example, someone with A+ blood has both A antigens and Rh factor.
Can a person with type O negative (O-) blood donate to anyone?
Yes, individuals with O- blood are universal donors for both ABO and Rh compatibility. They lack A, B, and Rh antigens.
What is the Bombay blood group, and why is it rare?
The Bombay blood group (hh) is extremely rare. People with this blood type lack both A and B antigens as well as the H antigen (the precursor to A and B antigens). They can only receive blood from other Bombay blood group individuals
Explain the concept of agglutination in blood typing
Agglutination occurs when antibodies in the recipient’s plasma react with antigens on transfused red blood cells, causing them to clump together. This can lead to serious complications in transfusions.
What does the term “Rh factor” refer to in blood typing?
The Rh factor, also called the Rhesus factor, is an antigen present on the surface of red blood cells. It is either positive (Rh+) or negative (Rh-)
Which blood type is considered the universal donor for Rh compatibility?
Individuals with O- (O negative) blood are universal donors for both ABO and Rh compatibility. They lack A, B, and Rh antigens.
If a person with Rh- blood receives Rh+ blood during a transfusion, what can happen?
If an Rh- individual receives Rh+ blood, their immune system may produce antibodies against the Rh antigen. This can lead to hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells) in subsequent transfusions.
What is the significance of the “D antigen” in the Rh system?
The D antigen (Rh factor) is the most important Rh antigen. If a person lacks the D antigen (Rh-), they are considered Rh-negative.
Why is Rh incompatibility particularly concerning during pregnancy?
Rh incompatibility between a Rh- mother and a Rh+ fetus can lead to hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN). The mother’s antibodies can cross the placenta and attack the fetal red blood cells, causing anemia and other complications.
Can an Rh- person receive Rh+ blood in an emergency situation?
In emergencies, Rh- individuals can receive Rh+ blood, but steps must be taken to prevent sensitization (formation of antibodies). Rhogam (anti-D immunoglobulin) is administered to prevent antibody production.