Cartwright blood group system review

The Cartwright (Yt) blood group system consists of two antigens, Yt^a and Yt^b, that result from point mutations in the acetylcholinesterase gene on chromosome 7q. Yt^a is a high-incidence antigen, whereas its antithetical antigen, Yt^b, shows much lower incidence. Anti-Yt^a and anti-Yt^b are relatively rare. Anti-Yt^a is more commonly found in individuals of Jewish descent. Cartwright antibodies are rarely clinically significant; however, cases of in vivo hemolysis have been reported, suggesting that clinical significance should be interpreted on a case-by-case basis. Immunohematology2012;28:49–54.