The ABH blood group is a system used to classify human blood types based on the presence or absence of certain antigens on the surface of red blood cells. This system is named after the three main types of antigens present in the blood: A, B, and H. These antigens determine an individual's blood type by interacting with antibodies produced by the immune system.
In the ABH blood group system, there are four main blood types: A, B, AB, and O. Type A blood has A antigens on the surface of red blood cells, type B blood has B antigens, type AB blood has both A and B antigens, and type O blood has neither A nor B antigens.
The presence of A and B antigens also determines the compatibility of blood transfusions. For instance, individuals with type A blood can typically receive type A or O blood, while individuals with type B blood can receive type B or O blood. Individuals with type AB blood are considered universal recipients, as they can receive blood from any blood type, and individuals with type O blood, which lacks A and B antigens, are considered universal donors, as they can donate blood to individuals of any blood type.
The ABH blood group is an essential part of blood typing procedures in medical and transfusion practices, ensuring safe and compatible blood transfusions and contributing to overall patient health and well-being.
