Rhcompatibel

Rhcompatibel is a term used in transfusion medicine and obstetrics to denote compatibility with the Rh blood group antigen system. It applies to blood products, organ donors, and donor–recipient pairs in which tests indicate minimal risk of Rh-related immune reaction, particularly anti-D alloimmunization. The concept underpins practices that aim to prevent hemolytic reactions and to protect pregnant individuals from Rh incompatibility.

Assessment relies on RhD typing and profiling of other Rh antigens (C, c, D, E, e), plus screening for anti-Rh antibodies. In some cases, weak D variants or partial D patterns require confirmation by serology or molecular genotyping. A unit or pair is deemed Rhcompatible when tests show no anti-D activity and a compatible Rh phenotype for the recipient, with matching depending on clinical context.

In transfusion settings, Rhcompatibel matching may involve providing Rh-negative blood to Rh-negative recipients, and in women of childbearing potential, avoiding Rh-positive units when possible to minimize sensitization risk. In neonatal and obstetric care, Rhcompatibel strategies are used to prevent hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn and to guide prophylaxis with Rh immune globulin.

The term combines "Rh" from the Rh blood group system with "compatible," reflecting its function in safe donor–recipient matching. The Rh system was characterized in the mid-20th century by Landsteiner and Wiener, and testing for anti-Rh immunity has evolved substantially since then.