Definition of Rh factor
: any of one or more genetically determined antigens present in the red blood cells of most persons and of higher animals and capable of inducing intense immunogenic reactions
From the M-W Editors
Origin and Etymology of rh factor
rhesus monkey (in which it was first detected)
First Known Use: 1942
RH FACTOR Defined for English Language Learners
Rh factor
playDefinition of Rh factor for English Language Learners
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medical : a substance that is present in the red blood cells of most people
Medical Dictionary
Rh factor
playMedical Definition of Rh factor
: a genetically determined protein on the red blood cells of some people that is one of the substances used to classify human blood as to compatibility for transfusion and that when present in a fetus but not in the mother causes a serious immunogenic reaction in which the mother produces antibodies that cross the placenta and attack the red blood cells of the fetus—called also rhesus factor
Learn More about rh factor
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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about Rh factor
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