Blood Group & Rh Factor Test

Blood Group & Rh Factor tests determine your blood type and Rh factor status. This information is crucial for safe blood transfusions, organ transplants, and during pregnancy. Here’s an overview of what these tests entail and their significance:

Blood Group & Rh Factor: Key Information

What are Blood Groups?

• ABO System: The ABO blood group system classifies blood into four types based on the presence or absence of antigens on the surface of red blood cells:
  • Type A: Has A antigens on red cells and B antibodies in the plasma.
  • Type B: Has B antigens on red cells and A antibodies in the plasma.
  • Type AB: Has both A and B antigens on red cells and no A/B antibodies in the plasma.
  • Type O: Has no A/B antigens on red cells and both A and B antibodies in the plasma.

What is the Rh Factor?

• Rh Factor: Another antigen that may be present (+) or absent (-) on the surface of red blood cells:
  • Rh Positive (Rh+): If the Rh antigen is present.
  • Rh Negative (Rh-): If the Rh antigen is absent.

Why is the Blood Group & Rh Factor Test Done?

1. Blood Transfusions: To ensure compatibility between donor and recipient blood, preventing adverse reactions.
2. Pregnancy: To identify Rh incompatibility between mother and fetus, which can lead to hemolytic disease of the newborn.
3. Medical Procedures: Essential for organ transplants, surgeries, and managing certain medical conditions.

When Should You Get a Blood Group & Rh Factor Test?

• Pre-Transfusion: Before receiving a blood transfusion to ensure compatibility.
• Pregnancy: Early in pregnancy to determine if Rh immunoglobulin is needed.
• Pre-Surgery: As part of preoperative assessments to prepare for potential transfusions.
• Blood Donation: When donating blood to classify and label the donated blood correctly.