The ABO blood group is the phenotype of a person's blood as it emerges from genetic information. The four most common phenotypes are: A, B, AB and O, which refer to the type of antigen present on the surface of the red blood cells.
The type or group of Rhesus (Rh) refers to whether the Rh antigen is present (Rh positive) or absent (Rh negative) on the surface of a person's red blood cells. Routine tests usually involve searching only for the Rh0 (D) antigen. If a Rh-negative patient receives Rh-positive blood, they will develop Rh antibodies and future Rh-positive blood transfusions will trigger a reaction. In pregnancy, antibodies from the Rh-negative mother can cause hemolysis in the fetal red blood cells which has inherited the Rh-positive antigen from the father (fetal erythroblastosis, or neonatal hemolytic disease).
This test determines the specific ABC and Rh phenotype by determining which of the red blood cell antigens A and B are present as well as whether the Rh0 (D) antigen is present.
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. Correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
