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Hepatitis transmission by blood products
1Edinburgh and South East Scotland, Blood Transfusion Service.
The Journal of Hospital Infection
|February 1, 1988
Summary
Screening blood donors for hepatitis B surface antigen reduces hepatitis transmission. Further research is needed on alanine aminotransferase and hepatitis B core antibody screening effectiveness for preventing non A non B hepatitis.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Blood Transfusion Safety
- Virology
Background:
- Hepatitis B and non A non B hepatitis (NANB) are primary concerns for blood product transmission.
- Hepatitis B surface antigen screening has decreased transmission, but effectiveness of other markers is unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of screening blood donors for hepatitis B surface antigen, alanine aminotransferase levels, and hepatitis B core antibody.
- To assess methods for reducing NANB hepatitis transmission via blood products.
Main Methods:
- Review of current practices in blood donor screening.
- Analysis of preliminary data on heat treatment of factor VIII and IX concentrations.
- Evaluation of hepatitis transmission associated with immunoglobulin preparations.
Main Results:
- Hepatitis B surface antigen screening has proven effective in reducing hepatitis transmission.
- The efficacy of screening for elevated alanine aminotransferase or hepatitis B core antibody requires further investigation.
- Heat treatment shows promise for inactivating the NANB virus under specific conditions.
- Intravenous immunoglobulin (IV IgG) preparations have transmitted hepatitis, highlighting the need for virucidal steps.
Conclusions:
- While hepatitis B transmission is reduced by surface antigen screening, NANB hepatitis remains a challenge.
- Heat treatment and terminal virucidal steps are crucial for ensuring the safety of blood products, particularly immunoglobulin preparations.