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Transmission of parasitic and bacterial infections through blood transfusion within the U.S
1Blood Bank, LAC + USC Medical Center 90033.
Abstract:
The American public has become aware that viral infections can be transmitted by blood transfusions; however, less attention has been paid to nonviral agents that are similarly transmitted. Although donors are tested routinely for serologic evidence of Treponema pallidum infection (syphilis), there are no other bacterial infections for which donors are routinely tested, and no testing is done routinely to detect parasitic infections. Although current preventive strategies appear effective in preventing the transmission of nonviral agents by transfusion, changing population demographics, increased travel and immigration, and increased occurrence of certain asymptomatic bacterial infections in blood donors may require new policies to maintain the safety of the U.S. blood supply. This review focuses on the parasitic and bacterial infections that might pose a risk to transfusion recipients in the U.S.
Insights
Blood transfusions can transmit nonviral infections like bacterial and parasitic diseases. Current safety measures are effective, but evolving risks may necessitate updated policies for the U.S. blood supply.
Area of Science:
- Transfusion Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- While viral infections transmitted via blood transfusions are well-known, nonviral agents pose a similar risk.
- Routine screening of blood donors currently focuses on syphilis (Treponema pallidum), with no widespread testing for other bacterial or parasitic infections.
- Existing preventive strategies for nonviral transfusion transmission are considered effective.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review parasitic and bacterial infections that present a potential risk to transfusion recipients in the United States.
- To highlight the need for vigilance in blood supply safety due to emerging threats.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on transfusion-transmitted bacterial and parasitic infections.
- Analysis of current blood donor screening practices and their limitations.
- Assessment of factors influencing the risk of nonviral agent transmission.
Main Results:
- Syphilis is the only routine bacterial screening for blood donors.
- No routine screening exists for parasitic infections in blood donors.
- Factors such as population changes and increased travel may increase the risk of nonviral agent transmission.
Conclusions:
- Current strategies effectively prevent nonviral agent transmission, but may not be sufficient long-term.
- Evolving demographics and increased asymptomatic infections necessitate re-evaluation of blood donor policies.
- Maintaining U.S. blood supply safety requires proactive adaptation to new and existing infectious disease risks.
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