RhD positive red blood cells

RhD positive red blood cells are a human blood component characterized by the presence of the Rhesus D (RhD) antigen on the erythrocyte surface. They are primarily administered via transfusion to increase a patient's oxygen-carrying capacity in the setting of acute blood loss (hemorrhage) or chronic anemia. In clinical practice, these cells are typically prepared as packed red blood cells (PRBCs) after most plasma has been removed. Because the RhD antigen is highly immunogenic, RhD positive blood is typically reserved for RhD positive recipients. Exposure of RhD negative individuals—particularly females of childbearing potential—to RhD positive cells can lead to RhD allo-immunization, resulting in hemolytic transfusion reactions or hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) in future pregnancies. Management of accidental exposure often involves the administration of high-dose anti-D immunoglobulin to clear the RhD positive cells from circulation.

Other names

RhD positive RBCsRhD positive packed red blood cellsRh-positive erythrocytesRhD+ PRBCsRh-positive bloodRhesus D positive red blood cells