Rh factor An antigen found in the red blood cells of most people. Those who have Rh factor are said to be Rh positive (Rh+), and those who do not are Rh negative (Rh-). Blood used in transfusions must match donors for Rh status as well as for ABO blood group because Rh- patients will…
Rh incompatibility A difference in Rh blood group types between an Rh- mother and her Rh+ baby that leads to hemolytic disease of the newborn. See also hemolytic disease of the newborn.
rhabdomyolysis A condition in which skeletal muscle is broken down, releasing muscle enzymes and electrolytes from inside the muscle cells. Risks of rhabdomyolysis include muscle breakdown and kidney failure because the cellular component myoglobin is toxic to the kidneys. Rhabdomyolysis is relatively uncommon, but it most often occurs as the result of extensive muscle damage…
resistance Opposition to something, or the ability to withstand something. For example, some forms of the staphylococcus bacterium are resistant to treatment with antibiotics.
resistance, pulmonary Opposition of the respiratory system to air flow.
resistance, vascular Opposition to the flow of blood by a blood vessel.
resolution In genetics, the degree of molecular detail on a physical map of DNA. Resolution may range from low to high.
resorb To absorb again, to lose substance. For example, some of a tooth may be resorbed.
resorption The process of losing substance. For example, when bone is surgically reshaped, it undergoes both new formation and resorption.
respiration The act of inhaling and exhaling air in order to exchange oxygen for carbon dioxide.
respiratory Having to do with respiration.
respiratory failure Inability of the lungs to perform their basic task of gas exchange, the transfer of oxygen from inhaled air into the blood and the transfer of carbon dioxide from the blood into exhaled air. Respiratory failure occurs because of the failure of the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in tiny air sacs…