Blood Group (ABO & Rh Typing)
Sample Type: Whole Blood (EDTA)
Purpose: To determine an individual’s ABO blood group and Rh (Rhesus) factor, crucial for safe blood transfusions, pregnancy management, and organ transplantation.

Overview
ABO and Rh typing is a vital blood test that identifies a person's blood group based on the ABO system and their Rh factor (positive or negative). This information is essential in clinical settings to prevent potentially fatal transfusion reactions, ensure compatibility in organ donation, and manage Rh incompatibility during pregnancy.

ABO Blood Group System
There are four main blood groups based on the presence or absence of antigens on red blood cells:

Group A: Has A antigens on RBCs and anti-B antibodies in plasma.

Group B: Has B antigens and anti-A antibodies.

Group AB: Has both A and B antigens and no antibodies – universal plasma donor.

Group O: Has no A or B antigens, but has both anti-A and anti-B antibodies – universal red cell donor.

Rh (Rhesus) Factor
The Rh factor refers to the presence (+) or absence (−) of the D antigen on red blood cells:

Rh-positive (Rh⁺): D antigen is present.

Rh-negative (Rh⁻): D antigen is absent.

Rh typing is especially important in pregnancy. An Rh-negative mother carrying an Rh-positive fetus can develop antibodies that may harm future pregnancies (hemolytic disease of the newborn).

Sample Collection and Testing
Collected using EDTA anticoagulant tubes to preserve red blood cells.

Typing is done via forward grouping (detects antigens on RBCs) and reverse grouping (detects antibodies in plasma).

Results are generally available within a few hours.

Clinical Applications
Blood transfusion compatibility to avoid hemolytic reactions.

Prenatal care, especially in Rh-negative mothers.

Organ and tissue transplantation.

Paternity testing and forensic investigations.

Determining blood group before surgeries or major procedures.

Conclusion
ABO and Rh typing is a foundational test in medical practice. Knowing a patient’s blood group ensures safe transfusion, helps manage pregnancy complications, and supports clinical decision-making in various scenarios. It’s simple, quick, and potentially lifesaving.