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Brucella melitensis in blood cultures of two newborns due to exchange transfusion
Mustafa Akçakuş1, Duygu Esel, Neşide Cetin
1Department of Neonatology, Erciyes University Faculty of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey.
Abstract:
Brucellosis is a zoonotic infection, transmitted to humans primarily by consumption of unpasteurized milk and milk products. Transmission by blood transfusion is possible but very unusual. Herewith we present two newborns with positive blood cultures for Brucella melitensis after exchange transfusions. However, the standard tube agglutination titers against Brucella were not elevated and the newborns did not develop brucellosis. It is suggested that, in areas endemic for brucellosis, blood donors should be questioned about symptoms of brucellosis, and if suspected, serological tests for brucellosis should be indicated before blood transfusion. At the same time, the prevalence of the disease among animals should be reduced with effective animal disease control programs.
Insights
Brucellosis transmission via blood transfusion is rare but possible. Two newborns received Brucella melitensis through exchange transfusions but showed no symptoms, highlighting the need for donor screening in endemic areas.
Area of Science:
- Zoonotic infections
- Microbiology
- Public health
Background:
- Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease primarily transmitted through unpasteurized dairy products.
- Blood transfusion is a rare but documented route for Brucella transmission.
Observation:
- Two newborns developed Brucella melitensis bacteremia following exchange transfusions.
- Neither newborn exhibited elevated Brucella agglutination titers or clinical signs of brucellosis.
Findings:
- Exchange transfusion can transmit Brucella melitensis to newborns.
- Standard serological tests may not detect Brucella infection in neonates post-transfusion.
Implications:
- Implement donor screening for brucellosis symptoms in endemic regions.
- Consider serological testing for blood donors if brucellosis is suspected.
- Strengthen animal disease control programs to reduce Brucella prevalence.
