HTLV testing in blood transfusion

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Public Health
• Transfusion Medicine

Background:

• Mandatory screening for Human T-lymphotropic virus (HTLV) is crucial for improving blood supply safety globally.
• Geographical variations exist in HTLV types, with HTLV-1 predominant in Japan and Europe, and HTLV-II in the USA.
• Low prevalence and seroconversion rates of HTLV in European countries necessitate optimized screening strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficiency of single-time HTLV screening for blood donors.
• To analyze the impact of geographical variations in HTLV types on screening policies.
• To assess how the widespread use of leucodepleted cell concentrates may influence future HTLV screening strategies.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of HTLV infection prevalence and seroconversion rates in blood donors across different regions (Japan, Europe, USA).
• Review of current blood donation screening policies and their efficiency.
• Projection of policy modifications based on the potential generalization of leucodepleted cell concentrates.

Main Results:

• A single HTLV screening test demonstrates high efficiency in regions with low donor prevalence and seroconversion rates, such as European countries.
• Significant differences in the predominant HTLV types (HTLV-1 vs. HTLV-II) were observed between regions.
• The adoption of leucodepleted cell concentrates is expected to further influence and potentially modify HTLV screening policies.

Conclusions:

• Single-time HTLV screening is a highly efficient strategy for blood donors in low-prevalence regions like Europe.
• Current screening policies may require adjustments based on regional HTLV epidemiology and evolving transfusion technologies.
• Continued monitoring and adaptation of HTLV screening protocols are essential for maintaining blood safety.