Which group of antibodies is commonly found as cold agglutinins?

Prepare for the Harr Immunology, Serology and Blood Bank Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Cold agglutinins are antibodies that react at lower temperatures, typically around 4°C, causing agglutination of red blood cells. The group of antibodies that is commonly known to exhibit cold agglutination properties includes the M and N blood group antibodies. Anti-M and anti-N can form complexes at colder temperatures, which is characteristic of cold agglutinins.

The other groups mentioned do not typically function as cold agglutinins. For instance, anti-K, anti-k, and anti-Jsb are warm-reactive antibodies and are not associated with the cold temperature agglutination phenomenon. Similarly, anti-D, anti-e, and anti-C are primarily implicated in antibody-mediated hemolytic reactions at body temperature rather than at cold temperatures. Anti-Fya and anti-Fyb also fall into the category of warm-reactive antibodies and do not commonly display cold agglutination characteristics. Hence, the presence and functionality of anti-M and anti-N make the correct selection relevant in the context of cold agglutinins.

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