Which blood type is characterized by the absence of any Rh antigens?

Prepare for the AAB Medical Technologist (MT) Generalist Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations to boost your understanding. Get exam-ready now!

The blood type characterized by the absence of any Rh antigens is Rh-null. Individuals with Rh-null blood type do not express any of the Rh antigens on the surface of their red blood cells, including the common D antigen associated with the Rh factor. This condition is extremely rare and can lead to complications in blood transfusions, as Rh-null individuals can develop antibodies against Rh antigens not present in their serum.

In contrast, the other blood types mentioned all contain Rh antigens to varying degrees. For instance, A+ and B- indicate the presence of the Rh antigen (positive and negative, respectively), while AB- signifies the presence of A and B antigens along with the absence of the Rh antigen (indicating that the person is negative for Rh). None of these blood types can be classified as Rh-null since they still have some Rh antigen presence.

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