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Anti-HTLV-III testing--a practical solution for blood transfusion services?
South African Medical Journal = Suid-Afrikaanse Tydskrif Vir Geneeskunde
|December 21, 1985
Summary
A modified blood screening test for anti-Human T-lymphotropic virus type III (anti-HTLV-III) is cost-effective. This method could save South Africa millions annually on blood donation testing.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Public Health
- Medical Diagnostics
Background:
- Human T-lymphotropic virus type III (HTLV-III) poses a risk to blood transfusion safety.
- Current screening methods for anti-HTLV-III antibodies are costly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a modified commercially available test kit for screening blood donations for anti-HTLV-III.
- To assess the cost-effectiveness of the modified screening method.
Main Methods:
- A modification was applied to a commercially available test kit for anti-HTLV-III detection.
- The modified test's performance and reagent cost were evaluated.
Main Results:
- The modified test kit for anti-HTLV-III screening was found to be satisfactory.
- The reagent cost per donation using the modified method is less than R1.00.
- Widespread adoption could reduce annual national testing costs from over R2.7 million to approximately R650,000.
Conclusions:
- The modified anti-HTLV-III screening test offers a significantly more economical approach to blood donation testing in South Africa.
- Implementing this cost-saving measure could enhance the financial sustainability of transfusion services while maintaining screening efficacy.