This important book uses selected molecules expressed on erythrocytes, lymphocytes, platelets and granulocytes to illustrate how genetic polymorphisms and variations in these molecules can affect their structure and function in mature human blood cells. The examples described tend to have a clinical association. Human blood group antigens and HLA antigens are classic examples of genetic polymorphism and they are important in blood transfusion and organ transplantation, respectively. In common with the blood group antigens, the polymorphic and variant antigens on platelets and granulocytes can...