What is Rh- factor? Define its types. State its effect.
Answers
Rh factor :
Rh factor is a protein found on the surface of erythrocytes and if the erythrocytes have this protein present , they are called Rh positive.
It was first found in Rhesus monkey and hence named after them . Rh factor determines if the two samples of blood are compatible to each other when transfusion is made between them .
Rh - factor is the second most common type of blood grouping system and is of two types :
- Rh - positive : When the protein is present on the erythrocytes.
- Rh - negetive : When the protein is absent on the erythrocytes .
Effect of Rh - factor :
When the two blood groups are incompatible and are mixed together can lead to serious issues and may be fatal .
For example : in a condition called erythroblastosis fetalis , the blood group of an Rh negetive mother mixes with Rh positive child and causes the immediate death of child and even death of mother . This is one of the effect of Rh compatibility .
Hence it becomes essential to match the Rh factor of blood along with ABO blood grouping during blood transfusion .