Verenryhmäantigeenit

Verenryhmäantigeenit are substances found on the surface of red blood cells that determine an individual's blood type. These antigens are proteins or carbohydrates that can elicit an immune response if they are foreign to the body. The most well-known blood group system is the ABO system, which classifies blood into four main types: A, B, AB, and O. This classification is based on the presence or absence of two specific antigens, A and B, on the red blood cells. Type A blood has A antigens, type B has B antigens, type AB has both A and B antigens, and type O has neither.

Another significant blood group system is the Rh system, which is characterized by the RhD antigen. Individuals are classified as Rh-positive if they have the RhD antigen on their red blood cells, and Rh-negative if they do not. The combination of the ABO and Rh systems results in eight common blood types: A+, A-, B+, B-, AB+, AB-, O+, and O-.

Beyond these primary systems, numerous other blood group systems exist, each with its own set of antigens. Examples include the Kell, Duffy, Kidd, and MNS systems. The presence or absence of these antigens is genetically determined and inherited from parents. Understanding these blood group antigens is crucial for safe blood transfusions, as transfusing incompatible blood can lead to a serious immune reaction. It is also important in pregnancy to prevent hemolytic disease of the newborn.