What is the most probable Kell system genotype of an individual who has been sensitized to the k antigen and produced anti-k?

Prepare for the Technologist in Blood Banking (BB (ASCP)) Test with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has tips and explanations. Get thoroughly ready for your exam!

In the Kell blood group system, individuals can possess one of three possible genotypes: KK, Kk, or kk, with the presence of the K antigen associated with the dominant alleles K and k. If an individual has been sensitized to the k antigen, it means that they have encountered the k antigen previously, leading to the production of antibodies against it, namely anti-k.

The key to understanding the correct genotype lies in the fact that an individual who produces anti-k must have no k antigens present on their red blood cells. The genotype KK would mean that the individual possesses the dominant phenotype of the Kell system without the expression of the k antigen. Their immune system, upon exposure to the k antigen, would thus recognize it as foreign and mount an immune response by producing anti-k antibodies.

The other genotypes (Kk, kk, and K0K0) would not fit this scenario. Kk genotype would express both K and k antigens, and a sensitized individual with this genotype would not produce anti-k because they have the k antigen present. The kk genotype would lack the K antigen entirely but would express the k antigen, also failing to produce anti-k. Lastly, the K0K0 genotype indicates the complete

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