Blutgruppensystemen

Blutgruppensystemen refers to the classification of human blood based on the presence or absence of inherited antigenic substances on the surface of red blood cells. These antigens can trigger an immune response if they are foreign to the recipient's body, leading to potentially life-threatening transfusion reactions. The most well-known and clinically significant blood group system is the ABO system, which categorizes blood into four main types: A, B, AB, and O. This classification is determined by the presence or absence of A and B antigens on the red blood cells and the corresponding antibodies in the plasma.

Another crucial blood group system is the Rh system, primarily characterized by the presence or absence of the D antigen. Individuals with the D antigen are considered Rh-positive (Rh+), while those without it are Rh-negative (Rh-). The combination of ABO and Rh factors creates eight common blood types, such as A+, O-, B+, etc. Understanding these systems is vital for safe blood transfusions, as transfusing incompatible blood can lead to hemolysis, where red blood cells are destroyed.

Beyond ABO and Rh, numerous other blood group systems exist, with hundreds of different antigens identified. These include the Kell, Duffy, Kidd, and MNS systems, among many others. While less frequently involved in routine transfusions, antigens in these other systems can become significant in specific clinical situations, such as in individuals who have received multiple transfusions or in cases of hemolytic disease of the newborn. The study and characterization of these blood group systems are essential for transfusion medicine, forensic science, and anthropological research.