Product Code: 27EL-702-2035
Please note: This is a Single Viewer eCast registration for one participant for this eCast for both the live and on-demand version of this eCast. If you are interested in presenting this program to a group, please see the “eCast Registration Form– Group Viewing” form on the eCast program page.
Access instructions for the live eCast will be provided via email approximately 2-3 business days prior to the live program date. Access instructions for the on-demand version of this program will be provided via email approximately 3-10 business days after the live program has occurred and the on-demand version is available.
Program Description: The Rh blood group system is one of the most complex and clinically significant blood group systems in transfusion medicine. The Rh antigens D, C, E, c, and e are highly immunogenic and play a critical role in alloimmunization, transfusion compatibility, and hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN). Molecular variation within the RHD and RHCE genes contributes to weak and partial antigen expression, loss of high prevalence antigens and gain of low prevalence antigens, all of which can complicate serologic testing and clinical interpretation. Understanding Rh antigen diversity and the molecular methods that predict complex Rh phenotypes are critical to assessing risk of alloimmunization, resolving typing discrepancies, and guiding transfusion and prenatal management.
This eCast will explore the molecular basis of Rh antigen expression with a focus on D, C, E, c, and e, and correlate these findings with serologic results. Practical applications in the transfusion service and reference laboratory settings, including strategies for resolving complex cases and optimizing patient care, will be reviewed. Because the management of patients with complex Rh phenotypes often requires collaboration between the blood bank and the patient care team, this activity is interprofessional in nature. Through a shared understanding of Rh complexity, healthcare professionals will be better equipped to collaborate in the prevention of alloimmunization, selection of compatible blood products, and management of patients at risk for HDFN.