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Published on: July 9, 2014
Cytomegalovirus seroprevalence among blood donors: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Tiruneh Adane1, Solomon Getawa1
1Department of Hematology and Immunohematology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.
Background:
Screening for cytomegalovirus (CMV)-specific antibodies is not routine in some settings. Thus, transfusion of blood products poses risks for susceptible individuals.
Objectives:
To investigate the global pooled CMV seroprevalence among volunteer blood donors.
Methods:
This systematic review and meta-analysis was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. The databases searched included Embase, Google Scholar, Medline, PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. Data were extracted independently and analyzed using STATA version 11.
Results:
The global seroprevalence of CMV IgG, CMV IgM, and both CMV IgM and IgG was 83.16% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 78.55-87.77%, I2 = 99.5%), 13.77% (95% CI: 11.59-15.95%, I2 = 98.8%), and 23.78% (95% CI: 10.50-37.06%, I2 = 98.7), respectively.
Conclusion:
The global seroprevalence of CMV was high among blood donors. Therefore, regular CMV screening should be conducted to identify CMV-seronegative blood donors.
Insights
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) seroprevalence is high globally among blood donors, with IgG antibodies found in 83.16%. Regular screening is recommended to ensure the safety of blood transfusions for susceptible individuals.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Public Health
- Transfusion Medicine
Background:
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV) antibody screening is not consistently performed, creating risks for transfusion recipients.
- Susceptible individuals face potential complications from transfused blood products lacking CMV screening.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the global pooled seroprevalence of cytomegalovirus (CMV) in volunteer blood donors.
- To provide a comprehensive overview of CMV infection rates within the blood donor population worldwide.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review and meta-analysis adhering to PRISMA guidelines.
- Searched multiple databases including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library.
- Data extraction and analysis performed using STATA version 11.
Main Results:
- The global seroprevalence of CMV IgG antibodies was 83.16% (95% CI: 78.55-87.77%).
- CMV IgM seroprevalence was 13.77% (95% CI: 11.59-15.95%).
- Seroprevalence for both CMV IgM and IgG antibodies was 23.78% (95% CI: 10.50-37.06%).
Conclusions:
- A high global seroprevalence of cytomegalovirus (CMV) was observed among blood donors.
- Routine CMV screening is crucial for identifying CMV-seronegative blood donors.
- Implementing regular screening enhances transfusion safety for vulnerable patient groups.

