ABO Grouping and RHo(D) Typing (Blood Type Test) LabCorp

What is this test?  

The Blood Type Test establishes whether you are A, B, AB, O, and if you are Rh positive or Rh negative. 

Knowing your blood type is important for many reasons. If you ever need a blood transfusion due to an accident or other medical condition, the hospital will need to know your blood type to supplement. Infusing the wrong type of blood can cause deadly clotting as the body rejects the foreign substance. It’s also important to know your blood type so that you can donate blood. People with O negative blood are considered universal donors and are especially encouraged to donate blood to help save lives.  

Medical conditions and treatments can also depend on blood type, and knowing your blood type can help you predict your risk of certain health concerns. For example, A, B, or AB blood types are typically shown to be at a greater risk of heart disease compared to those with Type O blood. Blood type can also cause complications during pregnancy if the mother and fetus have incompatible types. There is evidence to suggest that being Rh negative may make people less susceptible to certain parasites or viruses, as well.  

There are eight common blood types, and these types are determined by multiple factors, including the types of antigens you have. Antigens are carbohydrates that attach to red blood cells (among other proteins and lipids). People with Type A blood have A antigens within their red blood cells, and so on with each type. If you have Type A blood, your body makes antibodies for every other type of antigen but A, which is why blood infusions between blood groups are mostly incompatible. Type O does not contain any antigens, which is what makes it a universal type when paired with being Rh negative. 

Another factor is whether your blood cells have Rhesus, or Rh, which is a protein found on some red blood cells. If your blood contains Rh, you are positive, and if it does not contain Rh, you are considered negative.   

Blood type is inherited and does not change over time.  

Who is this test for? 

It is beneficial for anyone to know their blood type for the reasons listed above. If you don’t know your type, and if you want to donate blood or be prepared for a medical crisis, this test can accurately evaluate your blood type. Knowing your blood type is an effective way to take control of your health.