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Human blood is typed according to whether certain markers, called antigens, are present on the surface of red blood cells. The ABO system classifies blood as type A, B, AB, or O based on the presence or absence of the A and B antigens; the Rh system classifies blood as negative or positive based on the presence or absence of the Rh antigen (Rh factor).

If red blood cells have:

  • The A antigen, they are type A blood.
  • The B antigen, they are type B blood.
  • Both the A and B antigens, they are type AB blood.
  • Neither A nor B antigens, they are type O blood.

Rh blood typing determines the presence (+) or absence (–) of the Rh factor. If red blood cells:

  • Have the Rh antigen, they are Rh-positive.
  • Do not have the Rh antigen, they are Rh-negative.

Current as of: December 13, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: December 13, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.