The ABO and Rh Blood Groups

Course overview

The ABO blood group antigens are expressed on the surface of red blood cells and other cell types. These antigens can cause lethal transfusion reactions in patients receiving incompatible blood products. Accurate blood type determination by forward and reverse grouping as well as cross matching must be performed carefully to ensure compatibility for ABO and D antigens. Prenatal screening should be done to prevent hemolytic disease of the newborn in Rh-negative mothers having Rh-incompatible fetuses.