What term refers to the presence or absence of antigens on the surface of red blood cells?

• A. Rh Factor
• B. Blood Type
• C. Hemoglobin
• D. Platelet Count

Answer: (A)

The term that refers to the presence or absence of antigens on the surface of red blood cells is blood type. Blood types, such as A, B, AB, and O, are determined by the specific antigens present on the red blood cell membranes. Additionally, the Rh factor is part of the blood type classification system, designating whether the RhD antigen is present (positive) or absent (negative). However, blood type encompasses a broader classification that includes all relevant antigens, making it the most appropriate term to describe the overall presence or absence of these antigens.

Hemoglobin refers to the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen, not the antigens themselves. Platelet count is a measure of the number of platelets and is unrelated to red blood cell antigens. Thus, blood type is the accurate and comprehensive term to describe the antigens on the surface of red blood cells.