The Kidd Blood Group System refers to a classification of blood types named after Dr. Allen E. Kidd. The term is pronounced /kɪd blʌd ɡru p sɪst əm/ and is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet, commonly used to represent the sounds of spoken language. The pronunciation starts with a short "i" sound, followed by a hard "d" and a schwa, then the "bluhd" sound with a schwa and a hard "p". The last two sounds are an "s" and a "t" with schwas in between.
The Kidd Blood Group System is a complex genetic blood classification system that categorizes individuals into different groups based on the presence or absence of certain antigens on red blood cells. It is named after its discoverer, Dr. William J. Kidd. The Kidd antigens are encoded by a pair of alleles, JK*A and JK*B, which are located on the chromosome 18.
There are three main phenotypes identified within the Kidd Blood Group System: Jka, Jkb, and Jknull. Individuals who possess the Jka antigen on their red blood cells are classified as Jka positive, while those with the Jkb antigen are classified as Jkb positive. The Jknull phenotype indicates the absence of both the Jka and Jkb antigens.
The Kidd Blood Group System is of significant importance in blood transfusion medicine, as antibodies against the Kidd antigens can be produced in individuals lacking these antigens, leading to adverse transfusion reactions. It is vital to accurately identify the blood type of patients to ensure safe blood transfusions and successful organ transplants.
The Kidd Blood Group System is determined through serological tests using specific antisera that can detect the presence or absence of Jka and Jkb antigens. Additionally, molecular testing of the JK*A and JK*B alleles can be performed for a more precise identification of an individual's blood type within the Kidd system.