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Rh factor  any of numerous genetically determined antigens (agglutinogens) found on the surface of erythrocytes; there are at least eight different ones. If one of the factors is present in an individual's erythrocytes, the blood type is called Rh positive (D positive, Rh0); if the factor is absent, the blood type is called Rh negative (D negative, dd, or Hr0 ). Most people are Rh positive. The presence or absence of an Rh factor is especially important in blood transfusions; mixing of two types of blood may result in agglutination of red blood cells and plugging of capillaries. If a pregnant woman is Rh negative and the fetus in the womb is Rh positive, the newborn baby may develop erythroblastosis fetalis.




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