[Current status of transfusion-transmitted infection]

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Hematology
• Public Health

Background:

• Transfusion-transmitted infections (TTIs) represent a significant public health concern.
• Advances in screening technologies have led to a remarkable decrease in TTIs.
• Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) are key transfusion-transmitted pathogens.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current status of TTIs in blood transfusion.
• To highlight the impact of improved screening methods on TTI reduction.
• To identify emerging challenges in blood product safety.

Main Methods:

• Review of epidemiological data on TTIs.
• Analysis of the effectiveness of HCV and HIV antibody screening.
• Evaluation of bacterial contamination risks in stored blood products.

Main Results:

• Introduction of anti-HCV antibody screening reduced nonA, nonB posttransfusion hepatitis (PTH) significantly.
• Second-generation HCV screening is expected to further lower HCV-PTH.
• No transfusion-related HIV infections reported since screening implementation, but vigilance is needed due to rising heterosexual transmission.
• Malaria and Chagas' disease are currently not transfusion risks in Japan, but immigration poses a potential threat.
• Bacterial contamination in blood products, particularly platelet concentrates and red cell products, presents new challenges.

Conclusions:

• Current blood screening strategies have substantially reduced TTI rates.
• Continued monitoring for HIV and emerging infectious agents is crucial.
• Addressing bacterial contamination in stored blood products is essential for ensuring transfusion safety.