An inherited RBC characteristic, NOR, resulting in erythrocyte polyagglutination

This report describes a new inheritable red blood cell characteristic, termed NOR, that is associated with polyagglutination. The NOR factor was shown to be inherited in an apparent dominant manner by 5 members of a two-generation family. NOR was clearly demonstrated to be a unique form of polyagglutination distinguishable from previously reported forms by serological tests using seed lectins, snail agglutinins, enzymes and absorption techniques. The NOR factor was characterized by the lack of reactivity with various seed and snail lectins, enhanced serum agglutinability after RBC proteolytic enzyme treatment, and the ability of hydatid cyst fluid to inhibit the serum hemagglutination reaction.