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Published on: February 4, 2018
Transfusion-Associated Lyme Disease - Although Unlikely, It Is Still a Concern Worth Considering
Charles S Pavia1, Maria M Plummer2
1Department of Biomedical Sciences, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, New York, NY, United States.
Abstract:
Even though hematogenous spread of the Lyme disease spirochete, Borrelia burgdorferi, has been well documented, and there are more than 300,000 cases per year of Lyme disease in the United States, no evidence (anecdotal or published) of transfusion-associated Lyme disease has been reported. Such a possibility would seem to exist but various factors, as discussed in this perspective, make this less likely to occur. Nonetheless, if not done already, safeguards need to be put in place at blood collection and dispensing facilities, possibly with the assistance of diagnostic microbiology and immunology laboratories, to ensure that the potential for the transfer of the Lyme disease spirochete through a blood transfusion remains a theoretical consideration rather than a real possibility.
Insights
Despite documented spread of Lyme disease bacteria (Borrelia burgdorferi), transfusion-associated Lyme disease is unreported. This perspective discusses factors making transmission unlikely, but recommends safeguards for blood safety.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Lyme disease, caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, is prevalent in the US with over 300,000 annual cases.
- Hematogenous (bloodborne) spread of Borrelia burgdorferi is a known phenomenon in Lyme disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the theoretical risk of transfusion-associated Lyme disease.
- To discuss factors influencing the likelihood of Borrelia burgdorferi transmission via blood transfusion.
- To recommend preventative measures for blood collection and dispensing facilities.
Main Methods:
- This is a perspective piece, not an experimental study.
- It involves a review and discussion of existing knowledge on Borrelia burgdorferi biology and Lyme disease epidemiology.
- Analysis of factors relevant to pathogen survival and transmission in the context of blood banking.
Main Results:
- No documented cases of transfusion-associated Lyme disease have been reported, despite the high incidence of Lyme disease.
- Several biological and practical factors likely reduce the risk of Borrelia burgdorferi transmission through blood transfusions.
Conclusions:
- While theoretically possible, the risk of transfusion-associated Lyme disease appears very low.
- Implementing safeguards at blood collection and dispensing facilities is prudent to maintain blood safety and address any residual risk.
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