Blood Type (ABO + Rh)
Determines blood type (A, B, AB, or O) and Rh factor (positive or negative) for transfusion compatibility, pregnancy planning, and medical emergencies.
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LevelPanel has no business or affiliate relationship with Quest or LabCorp. These links are provided as a public service.
Lab testing services linked from this site are not available to residents of Alaska, Arizona, or Hawaii, unless otherwise noted on the lab's own website.
This publication is not intended to solicit the purchase of laboratory testing from any individual consumer.
What this test measures
Blood typing identifies which antigens, specific protein markers, sit on the surface of an individual's red blood cells. The ABO system classifies blood as type A, B, AB, or O depending on whether A antigens, B antigens, both, or neither are present. The Rh system adds a second layer by detecting the RhD antigen: if it is present the blood is Rh-positive; if absent, Rh-negative. Combining these two systems produces eight possible blood types: A+, A−, B+, B−, AB+, AB−, O+, and O−.
The test works by mixing a small blood sample with specific antibodies (anti-A, anti-B, and anti-D). When red blood cells clump together in the presence of a particular antibody, it confirms the matching antigen is on the cell surface. Knowing one's blood type is important for medical safety: receiving incompatible blood during a transfusion can trigger a dangerous immune reaction, and Rh incompatibility between a pregnant person and a fetus can lead to complications that require monitoring and preventive treatment.
Who should consider this test
You might consider this test if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Individuals planning to become blood donors who need to know their blood type for donation eligibility
- Pregnant individuals or those planning pregnancy, as blood type compatibility between mother and baby is crucial for preventing complications
- Patients scheduled for surgery or medical procedures where blood transfusion may be necessary
- People who want to know their blood type for emergency medical situations when rapid treatment is needed
- Individuals with family members who have rare blood types and want to determine compatibility for potential donations
- Those interested in understanding their genetic heritage and family health history
What to expect
Preparation
No special preparation is required for blood type testing. Individuals can eat normally and take regular medications before the test. No fasting is necessary.
Sample Type
A small blood sample is collected from a vein in the arm, similar to routine blood work. The procedure is quick and minimally uncomfortable.
Collection
During the brief visit to the lab, a healthcare professional will clean the skin, insert a small needle to draw blood into collection tubes, and apply a bandage. The entire process typically takes less than five minutes.
Turnaround
Results are typically available within 1-2 business days and will be delivered securely through the patient portal or by mail.
Understanding your results
The report will state one of eight blood type combinations (A+, A−, B+, B−, AB+, AB−, O+, or O−), specifying both the ABO group and the Rh factor. Blood type is genetically determined and remains constant throughout life under normal circumstances, though rare medical events such as a bone marrow transplant can result in a type change. There is no "better" or "worse" blood type; the clinical relevance lies in compatibility for transfusions, organ donation, and pregnancy management.
| Population | Reference Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All Individuals | A+, A-, B+, B-, AB+, AB-, O+, or O- | Blood type is a qualitative result showing specific antigen presence, not a numerical range |
Reference ranges shown are general guidelines. Your lab report will include the specific reference range used by the laboratory that processed your sample, which is the authoritative range for interpreting your results.
What does a “Low” result mean?
Blood typing does not produce high or low numerical values. The results simply identify the specific blood group and Rh status based on the presence or absence of particular antigens. All blood types are normal variants and each has important medical significance.
What does a “High” result mean?
Blood typing does not produce high or low numerical values. Instead, it provides specific categorical results that indicate which antigens are present on red blood cells. Each blood type has its own characteristics regarding transfusion compatibility and potential medical considerations.
Privacy & confidentiality
All test orders are authorized and results reviewed by an independent, board-certified physician who is not the patient's personal doctor. Blood type testing through LevelPanel is completely confidential and private, with no doctor visit required. <u>Test results are not reported to your doctor</u> or healthcare provider unless you choose to share them. The results are <u>not part of your medical records</u> and are <u>not included on insurance statements</u> or explanations of benefits (EOB), ensuring complete privacy from insurance companies and employers. All personal health information is protected by strict privacy protocols and HIPAA compliance. Results are delivered securely through encrypted communication channels, and no information about your testing is shared with third parties. This private testing option allows individuals to learn their blood type for personal knowledge, emergency preparedness, or donation planning without involving their regular healthcare providers or insurance companies.
Frequently asked questions
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View TestLast reviewed: April 2026
CPT Code: 86900, 86901
This test may not be available in: NY, NJ, RI
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding any health concerns. LevelPanel does not diagnose, treat, or prescribe.
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LevelPanel has no business or affiliate relationship with Quest or LabCorp. These links are provided as a public service.
Lab testing services linked from this site are not available to residents of Alaska, Arizona, or Hawaii, unless otherwise noted on the lab's own website.
This publication is not intended to solicit the purchase of laboratory testing from any individual consumer.
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