Define the Blood Groups

We start our discussion by answering the question - do all of us have the same blood group? No, each individual has a different blood group. The differences in human blood are due to the presence or absence of certain protein molecules called antigens and antibodies. The antigens are located on the surface of the red blood cells and the antibodies are in the blood plasma. Individuals have different types and combinations of these molecules. The Blood Group you belong to depend on what you have inherited from your parents

Blood group, therefore, is based on the type of antigens present on the surface of RBCs.  There are more than 30 antigens, but for the purpose of blood transfusion, very few of them are practically significant. For all practical purposes, the starting point in determining the suitability of a donor is to type the donors, as well as, receipt blood in terms of ABO and Rh grouping. Sometimes there can be a mismatch reaction. Hence, besides an ABO and Rh grouping, cross matching of the donors' and recipients' blood is important. What is the ABO and Rh grouping? Let's get to know about these grouping systems.