What is the Rhesus Factor?
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Group of antigens on the surface of red blood cells of humans which characterize the rhesus blood group system. Most individuals possess the main rhesus factor (Rh+), but those without this factor (Rh-) produce antibodies if they come into contact with it. The name comes from rhesus monkeys, in whose blood rhesus factors were first found.
If an Rh- mother carries an Rh+ fetus, she may produce antibodies if fetal blood crosses the placenta. This is not normally a problem with the first infant because antibodies are only produced slowly. However, the antibodies continue to build up after birth, and a second Rh+ child may be attacked by antibodies passing from mother to fetus, causing the child to contract anaemia, heart failure, or brain damage. In such cases, the blood of the infant has to be changed for Rh- blood; a badly affected fetus may be treated in the womb (see fetal therapy). The problem can be circumvented by giving the mother anti-Rh globulin just after the first pregnancy, preventing the formation of antibodies.
It's the Rh factor, or the Anti-D antigen that's on people's red blood cells. It's named after the Rhesus monkey that was involved in its discovery. When you hear of blood types that are O Positive or A Negative, etc...this is the positive or negative that's being referred to (whether you have the antigen or not).
the rhesus factor is a chemical that is found on the surface of red blood cells people that have the rhesus chemical are said to be rhesus positive while those who dont have it are said to be rhesus negative its named after the rhesus monkeys in whom it was first discovered
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