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[Prevention of the post-transfusion hepatitis]
Schweizerische Medizinische Wochenschrift
|June 14, 1975
Summary
Screening blood donors for hepatitis B antigen (HB-sAg) is the most effective method to prevent posttransfusion hepatitis. However, some cases persist, necessitating further efforts to reduce hospital-acquired infections.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Transfusion Medicine
Background:
- Posttransfusion hepatitis remains a significant concern despite advancements in blood safety.
- Preventive strategies include donor screening, agent inactivation, and recipient immunoprophylaxis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of current methods for preventing posttransfusion hepatitis.
- To identify remaining challenges and sources of infection.
Main Methods:
- Review of established procedures for hepatitis prophylaxis.
- Discussion of sensitive screening tests for hepatitis B surface antigen (HB-sAg), such as radioimmunoassay and reversed passive hemagglutination.
Main Results:
- Hepatitis B surface antigen (HB-sAg) screening is the most efficient method currently available.
- An estimated 3-4 cases of overt posttransfusion hepatitis per 1000 transfusions still occur.
- Infections may be caused by agents other than hepatitis B virus or by hospital environment exposure.
Conclusions:
- While HB-sAg screening significantly reduces posttransfusion hepatitis, it does not eliminate it.
- Further strategies are needed to address residual infections, including those from non-transfusion-related hospital sources.