-
1.
Prevention strategies for vasovagal reaction in whole blood donors: A quadri-armed randomised control trial
Meher, R., Patidar, G. K., Chaurasia, R., Pandey, H. C., Hazarika, A.
Transfusion medicine (Oxford, England). 2024
-
-
-
-
Editor's Choice
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Vasovagal reaction (VVR) is a frequently encountered generalised donor adverse reaction, associated with donor deterrence towards future donation. Several mitigation strategies for prevention of VVR were tried but still not standardised. This quadri-armed randomised study evaluated the utility of water ingestion, applied muscle tension (AMT) and combination of both in preventing the VVR among blood donors. METHODS A quadri-armed randomised controlled trial was performed on 4320 whole blood donors. Blood donors of 18-65 years of age were randomised into four groups based on the interventions performed i.e., control with no intervention (Group 1, n = 1081), water ingestion (Group 2, n = 1082), AMT (Group 3, n = 1070) and combined intervention (Group 4, n = 1087). VVR during and immediately after blood donation were observed along with assessment of risk factors in blood donors and the effectiveness of interventions were analysed. RESULTS The incidence of VVR observed 1.6% in our study, with the highest occurrence in the control group (2.5%) and the lowest in the combined intervention group (0.9%). Multivariable logistic regression revealed that the control group donors faced a 1.38-fold greater risk of VVR compared to those receiving interventions (OR: 1.38, 95% CI: 1.10-1.75). Other risk factors included younger age (OR: 1.5, 95% CI: 1.05-2.17), first-time donation (OR: 5.7, 95% CI: 1.66-5.74), prior history of VVR (OR: 2.5, 95% CI: 10.4-101.52). DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION The combined approach of water ingestion and AMT proved significantly more effective in VVR prevention compared to individual interventions.
PICO Summary
Population
Whole blood donors (n= 4,320).
Intervention
Water ingestion (n= 1,082). Applied muscle tension (AMT), (n= 1,070). Combination of water ingestion and AMT (combined intervention group, n= 1,087).
Comparison
No intervention (control group, n= 1,081).
Outcome
The incidence of vasovagal reaction (VVR) was 1.6%, with the highest occurrence in the control group (2.5%) and the lowest in the combined intervention group (0.9%). Multivariable logistic regression revealed that the control group donors faced a 1.38-fold greater risk of VVR compared to those receiving interventions (OR 1.38; 95% CI [1.10, 1.75]). Other risk factors included younger age (OR 1.5; 95% CI [1.05, 2.17]), first-time donation (OR 5.7; 95% CI [1.66, 5.74]), and prior history of VVR (OR 2.5; 95% CI [10.4, 101.52]).
-
2.
Effects of plasmapheresis frequency on health status and exercise performance in men: A randomized controlled trial
Mortier, A., Khoudary, J., van Dooslaer de Ten Ryen, S., Lannoy, C., Benoit, N., Antoine, N., Copine, S., Van Remoortel, H., Vandekerckhove, P., Compernolle, V., et al
Vox sanguinis. 2023
-
-
-
-
Editor's Choice
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Most research studies on the effects of repeated plasma donation are observational with different study limitations, resulting in high uncertainty on the link between repeated plasma donation and health consequences. Here, we prospectively investigated the safety of intensive or less intensive plasma donation protocols. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sixty-three male subjects participated in this randomized controlled trial and were divided into low-frequency (LF, once/month, n = 16), high-frequency (HF, three times/month, n = 16), very high-frequency (VHF, two times/week, n = 16) and a placebo (P, once/month, n = 15) groups. Biochemical, haematological, clinical, physiological and exercise-related data were collected before (D0), after 1½ months (D42) and after 3 months (D84) of donation. RESULTS In VHF, red blood cells, haemoglobin and haematocrit levels decreased while reticulocyte levels increased from D0 to D84. In both HF and VHF, plasma ferritin levels were lower at D42 and D84 compared to D0. In VHF, plasma levels of albumin, immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin A (IgA) and immunoglobulin M (IgM) dropped from D0 to D42 and remained lower at D84 than at D0. In HF, plasma IgG, IgA and IgM were lower at D42, and IgG and IgM were lower at D84, compared to D0. Few adverse events were reported in HF and VHF. Repeated plasma donation had no effect on blood pressure, body composition or exercise performance. CONCLUSION VHF plasmapheresis may result in a large reduction in ferritin and IgG levels. HF and VHF plasmapheresis may result in little to no difference in other biochemical, haematological, clinical, physiological and exercise-related parameters.
PICO Summary
Population
Plasmapheresis donors (n= 63).
Intervention
One plasma donation per month (low-frequency (LF) n= 16).
Comparison
Three plasma donations per month (high-frequency (HF) n= 16). Two plasma donations per week (very high-frequency (VHF) n= 16). Placebo (n= 15).
Outcome
Biochemical, haematological, clinical, physiological and exercise-related data were collected before (D0), after one and a half months (D42) and after 3 months (D84) of donation. In VHF, red blood cells, haemoglobin and haematocrit levels decreased while reticulocyte levels increased from D0 to D84. In both HF and VHF, plasma ferritin levels were lower at D42 and D84 compared to D0. In VHF, plasma levels of albumin, immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin A (IgA) and immunoglobulin M (IgM) dropped from D0 to D42 and remained lower at D84 than at D0. In HF, plasma IgG, IgA and IgM were lower at D42, and IgG and IgM were lower at D84, compared to D0. Few adverse events were reported in HF and VHF. Repeated plasma donation had no effect on blood pressure, body composition or exercise performance.
-
3.
Cost Effectiveness of Different Platelet Preparation, Storage, Selection and Dosing Methods in Platelet Transfusion: A Systematic Review
Laermans, J., Van Remoortel, H., Scheers, H., Avau, B., Georgsen, J., Nahirniak, S., Shehata, N., Stanworth, S. J., De Buck, E., Compernolle, V., et al
PharmacoEconomics - open. 2023
-
-
-
Free full text
-
Editor's Choice
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Evidence-based guidelines on platelet transfusion therapy assist clinicians to optimize patient care, but currently do not take into account costs associated with different methods used during the preparation, storage, selection and dosing of platelets for transfusion. This systematic review aimed to summarize the available literature regarding the cost effectiveness (CE) of these methods. METHODS Eight databases and registries, as well as 58 grey literature sources, were searched up to 29 October 2021 for full economic evaluations comparing the CE of methods for preparation, storage, selection and dosing of allogeneic platelets intended for transfusion in adults. Incremental CE ratios, expressed as standardized cost (in 2022 EUR) per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) or per health outcome, were synthesized narratively. Studies were critically appraised using the Philips checklist. RESULTS Fifteen full economic evaluations were identified. Eight investigated the costs and health consequences (transfusion-related events, bacterial and viral infections or illnesses) of pathogen reduction. The estimated incremental cost per QALY varied widely from EUR 259,614 to EUR 36,688,323. For other methods, such as pathogen testing/culturing, use of apheresis instead of whole blood-derived platelets, and storage in platelet additive solution, evidence was sparse. Overall, the quality and applicability of the included studies was limited. CONCLUSIONS Our findings are of interest to decision makers who consider implementing pathogen reduction. For other preparation, storage, selection and dosing methods in platelet transfusion, CE remains unclear due to insufficient and outdated evaluations. Future high-quality research is needed to expand the evidence base and increase our confidence in the findings.
PICO Summary
Population
Platelet transfusion recipients (15 full economic evaluations).
Intervention
Systematic review summarising the available literature regarding the cost effectiveness of different platelet preparation, storage, selection and dosing methods in platelet transfusion.
Comparison
Outcome
Eight studies investigated the costs and health consequences (transfusion-related events, bacterial and viral infections or illnesses) of pathogen reduction. The estimated incremental cost per quality-adjusted life-year varied widely from EUR 259,614 to EUR 36,688,323. For other methods, such as pathogen testing/culturing, use of apheresis instead of whole blood-derived platelets, and storage in platelet additive solution, evidence was sparse. Overall, the quality and applicability of the included studies was limited.
-
4.
Pathogen inactivation methods to prevent transfusion-transmissible arboviruses
Giménez-Richarte Á, Ortiz de Salazar MI, Giménez-Richarte MP, Larrea L, Arbona C, Marco P, Ramos-Rincón JM
Tropical medicine & international health : TM & IH. 2023
-
-
-
-
Editor's Choice
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Arboviruses are emerging as a relevant threat to transfusion safety. Pathogen inactivation methods may reduce the risk of transmission through transfusion, as long as they meet minimum standards for effectiveness. This study aims to assess the log reduction of viral load achieved with different pathogen inactivation methods, according to the blood product they are used on and the arbovirus targeted. METHODS Systematic literature review and meta-analysis. Searches were conducted in MEDLINE and Embase. The study protocol was registered in PROSPERO CRD42022312061. We selected records reporting the log reduction of viral load achieved with the main pathogen inactivation methods (amotosalen + UVA light [INTERCEPT], riboflavin + UV light [Mirasol], methylene blue + visible light/UVC light [THERAFLEX], solvent detergent, amustaline [INTERCEPT] and PEN110 [Inactine]), applied to any blood product (plasma, platelets, red blood cells or whole blood) and for any arbovirus. The log reduction of viral loads was assessed by obtaining the mean log reduction factor (LRF). We compared and classified the LRF of different techniques using statistical methods. RESULTS We included 59 publications reporting LRF results in 17 arboviruses. For 13 arboviruses, including Chikungunya virus, Dengue virus, West Nile virus, and Zika virus, at least one of the methods achieves adequate or optimal log reduction of viral load - mean LRF ≥4. The LRF achieved with riboflavin + UV light is inferior to the rest of the techniques, both overall and specifically for plasma, platelets preserved in platelet additive solution (PAS)/plasma, and red blood cells/whole blood. The LRF achieved using Mirasol is also lower for inactivating chikungunya virus, dengue virus, and Zika virus. For West Nile virus, we found no significant differences. In plasma, the method that achieves the highest LRF is solvent/detergent; in platelets, THERAFLEX and INTERCEPT; and in red blood cells/whole blood, PEN110 (Inactine). CONCLUSION Not all pathogen inactivation methods achieve the same LRF, nor is this equivalent between the different arboviruses or blood products. Overall, the LRFs achieved using riboflavin + UV light (Mirasol) are inferior to those achieved with the rest of the pathogen inactivation methods. Regarding the others, LRFs vary by arbovirus and blood product. In light of the threat of different arboviruses, blood establishments should have already validated pathogen inactivation methods and be logistically prepared to implement these techniques quickly.
PICO Summary
Population
Whole blood or human blood products from blood donors (59 studies).
Intervention
Systematic literature review and meta-analysis assessing the log reduction of viral load achieved with different pathogen inactivation methods, according to the blood product they were used on and the arbovirus targeted.
Comparison
Outcome
The included studies reported log reduction factor (LRF) results in 17 arboviruses. For 13 arboviruses, including Chikungunya virus, Dengue virus, West Nile virus, and Zika virus, at least one of the methods achieved adequate or optimal log reduction of viral load - mean LRF ≥4. The LRF achieved with riboflavin + UV light was inferior to the rest of the techniques, both overall and specifically for plasma, platelets preserved in platelet additive solution (PAS)/plasma, and red blood cells/whole blood. The LRF achieved using Mirasol was also lower for inactivating Chikungunya virus, Dengue virus, and Zika virus. For West Nile virus, no significant differences were found. In plasma, the method that achieved the highest LRF was solvent/detergent; in platelets, THERAFLEX and INTERCEPT; and in red blood cells/whole blood, PEN110 (Inactine).
-
5.
Evaluation of interventions to prevent vasovagal reactions among whole blood donors: rationale and design of a large cluster randomised trial
McMahon, A., Kaptoge, S., Walker, M., Mehenny, S., Gilchrist, P. T., Sambrook, J., Akhtar, N., Sweeting, M., Wood, A. M., Stirrups, K., et al
Trials. 2023;24(1):512
-
-
-
Free full text
-
Editor's Choice
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vasovagal reactions (VVRs) are the most common acute complications of blood donation. Responsible for substantial morbidity, they also reduce the likelihood of repeated donations and are disruptive and costly for blood services. Although blood establishments worldwide have adopted different strategies to prevent VVRs (including water loading and applied muscle tension [AMT]), robust evidence is limited. The Strategies to Improve Donor Experiences (STRIDES) trial aims to reliably assess the impact of four different interventions to prevent VVRs among blood donors. METHODS STRIDES is a cluster-randomised cross-over/stepped-wedge factorial trial of four interventions to reduce VVRs involving about 1.4 million whole blood donors enrolled from all 73 blood donation sites (mobile teams and donor centres) of National Health Service Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) in England. Each site ("cluster") has been randomly allocated to receive one or more interventions during a 36-month period, using principles of cross-over, stepped-wedge and factorial trial design to assign the sequence of interventions. Each of the four interventions is compared to NHSBT's current practices: (i) 500-ml isotonic drink before donation (vs current 500-ml plain water); (ii) 3-min rest on donation chair after donation (vs current 2 min); (iii) new modified AMT (vs current practice of AMT); and (iv) psychosocial intervention using preparatory materials (vs current practice of nothing). The primary outcome is the number of in-session VVRs with loss of consciousness (i.e. episodes involving loss of consciousness of any duration, with or without additional complications). Secondary outcomes include all in-session VVRs (i.e. with and without loss of consciousness), all delayed VVRs (i.e. those occurring after leaving the venue) and any in-session non-VVR adverse events or reactions. DISCUSSION The STRIDES trial should yield novel information about interventions, singly and in combination, for the prevention of VVRs, with the aim of generating policy-shaping evidence to help inform blood services to improve donor health, donor experience, and service efficiency. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN 10412338. Registration date: October 24, 2019.
PICO Summary
Population
Whole blood donors enrolled in the Strategies to Improve Donor Experiences (STRIDES) trial from all 73 blood donation sites of National Health Service Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) in England (n= 1.4 million).
Intervention
(i) 500ml isotonic drink before donation; (ii) 3-min rest on donation chair after donation; (iii) New modified applied muscle tension (AMT); (iv) Psychosocial intervention using preparatory materials upon arrival and registration.
Comparison
NHSBT’s current practices: (i) 500ml plain water before donation. (ii) 2-min rest on donation chair after donation; (iii) Current practice of AMT; (iv) No psychosocial intervention.
Outcome
The primary outcome is the number of in-session vasovagal reactions (VVRs) with loss of consciousness. Secondary outcomes include all in-session VVRs, all delayed VVRs and any in-session non-VVR adverse events or reactions. Each site ("cluster") has been randomly allocated to receive one or more interventions during a 36-month period, using principles of cross-over, stepped-wedge and factorial trial design to assign the sequence of interventions. Researchers will test the hypothesis that that the implementation of one or more interventions, singly or in combination, will reduce VVRs when compared to current practice in NHSBT.
-
6.
Meta-analysis of bacterial growth characteristics in platelet components: Refining the inputs of a simulation analysis comparing the relative safety of testing strategies
Walker, B. S., Schmidt, R. L., White, S. K., Metcalf, R. A.
Transfusion. 2023
-
-
-
-
Editor's Choice
Abstract
BACKGROUND The relative safety of bacterial risk control strategies for platelets that include culture with or without rapid testing has been compared using simulation analysis. A wide range of bacterial lag and doubling times were included. However, published data on growth rates are available and these data have not been synthesized. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to estimate growth rates and used these estimates to refine a comparative safety analysis of bacterial risk control strategies in the FDA guidance STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS Data were extracted from published studies on bacterial growth rates in platelet components during storage. These data were used to estimate the practical range of growth rates. This refined the inputs for a simulation model comparing the safety of the testing strategies. RESULTS In total, 108 growth curves for 11 different aerobic organisms were obtained. Doubling times ranged from 0.8 to 12 h, but the lower 90% range was approximately 1-5 h. The revised comparative safety simulation using the narrower 1-5-h range showed similar rankings to the prior simulation, with 48-h large-volume delayed sampling with 7-day expiration (48C-7) demonstrating the lowest-ranking relative performance at the 10(3) and 10(5) colony forming unit (CFU)/mL exposure thresholds. DISCUSSION This was a two-step study. First, meta-analysis of published data on aerobic bacterial growth rates in stored platelets showed the vast majority of doubling times were 1-5 h. Next, an updated comparative safety simulation yielded similar results to a prior study, with 48C-7 showing the least favorable relative safety performance.
PICO Summary
Population
Recipients of platelet transfusions (12 studies).
Intervention
Systematic review and meta-analysis to estimate growth rates and used these estimates to refine a comparative safety analysis of bacterial risk control strategies in the FDA guidance.
Comparison
Outcome
Data were extracted from published studies on bacterial growth rates in platelet components during storage. These data were used to estimate the practical range of growth rates. This refined the inputs for a simulation model comparing the safety of the testing strategies. In total, 108 growth curves for 11 different aerobic organisms were obtained. Doubling times ranged from 0.8 to 12 h, but the lower 90% range was approximately 1-5 h. The revised comparative safety simulation using the narrower 1-5-h range showed similar rankings to the prior simulation, with 48-h large-volume delayed sampling with 7-day expiration (48C-7) demonstrating the lowest-ranking relative performance at the 10(3) and 10(5) colony forming unit (CFU)/mL exposure thresholds.
-
7.
What influences decisions to donate plasma? A rapid review of the literature
Berger, M., Easterbrook, A., Holloway, K., Devine, D., Bansback, N.
Vox sanguinis. 2023
-
-
-
-
Editor's Choice
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Plasma has become an essential ingredient for various medical treatments. Many blood collection agencies rely on voluntary non-remunerated donation when collecting plasma, but at present many do not collect sufficient plasma to meet domestic demands. This rapid review sought to explore the factors that have been found to influence people's decisions to donate plasma to inform future research. METHODS Searches were conducted in PubMed, PsycINFO, Social Sciences Citation Index and CINAHL for peer-reviewed journal articles that discussed plasma donation and the factors associated with donor behaviour. Pertinent information from included articles was extracted and arranged in themes. RESULTS In total, 33 articles were included in this review. Three main themes were identified by the authors. The first focused on site-level factors related to blood collection agencies' engagement with plasma donors and their influence on plasma donation experiences. The second theme considered how individual characteristics and experiences influence willingness to donate plasma. The third theme examined social and cultural-level factors, such as how social networks and community shape perceptions and experiences with donation. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that the current understanding of plasma donation is focused mainly on converting whole blood donors and also centres on individual-level factors to donation. Further research must examine what factors attract non-whole blood donors to become plasma donors, focusing on broader social-level influences. This review will inform policies and interventions for blood collection agencies to increase plasma donors.
PICO Summary
Population
Plasma donors (33 studies).
Intervention
Rapid review exploring the factors influencing people's decisions to donate plasma.
Comparison
Outcome
Three main themes were identified by the authors. The first focused on site-level factors related to blood collection agencies' engagement with plasma donors and their influence on plasma donation experiences. The second theme considered how individual characteristics and experiences influence willingness to donate plasma. The third theme examined social and cultural-level factors, such as how social networks and community shape perceptions and experiences with donation.
-
8.
The health impacts of blood donation: a systematic review of donor and non-donor perceptions
Thorpe, R., Masser, B., Coundouris, S. P., Hyde, M. K., Kruse, S. P., Davison, T. E.
Blood transfusion = Trasfusione del sangue. 2023
-
-
-
Free full text
-
Editor's Choice
Abstract
BACKGROUND The health and well-being of volunteer donors is of critical concern for blood collection agencies responsible for ensuring a stable supply of blood products. However, lay understandings of the impact of donating blood on health remain poorly understood. As lay perceptions are likely to influence critical decisions about donation, understanding these perceptions is key for informing evidence-based approaches to donor retention and recruitment. As such, we conducted a systematic review of the blood donation literature to identify donors' and non-donors' perceptions of the short and longer-term physiological health effects of whole-blood and/or blood product donation. MATERIALS AND METHODS This review was conducted in line with PRISMA guidelines. Studies published from January 1995 to February 2021 were included. Perceptions were defined as both experiences and beliefs. Psychological effects were considered outside the scope of the review. RESULTS A total of 247 studies were included. Most studies (89.5%) had donation-related health perceptions as a background rather than a central (10.5%) focus, and they were only assessed in relation to whole blood donation. More results focused on health-related beliefs than experiences (82 vs 18%), specific rather than general beliefs and experiences (80 vs 20%) and more frequently examined negative than positive beliefs and experiences (83 vs 17%). The most commonly studied and reported specific negative beliefs related to increased risk of infectious disease, reduced vitality, vasovagal reactions and low iron. Most studies examining specific negative beliefs were conducted in Asian countries. DISCUSSION Findings reinforce that lay perspectives on how donation impacts health are under-researched, and it is difficult to know how important these are in informing critical decisions about donation for donors and non-donors. We suggest that further research with donation-related health beliefs and experiences as the central focus is needed to provide insights to inform communications with donors and the public.
PICO Summary
Population
Blood donors and non-donors (247 studies, comprising: 27 qualitative, 204 quantitative, and 16 mixed-design methods).
Intervention
Systematic review of the blood donation literature to identify donors' and non-donors' perceptions of the short and longer-term physiological health effects of whole-blood and/or blood product donation.
Comparison
Outcome
From the included studies, there were 568 reports of beliefs and/or experiences. Perceptions were defined as both experiences and beliefs. Most studies (89.5%) had donation-related health perceptions as a background rather than a central (10.5%) focus, and they were only assessed in relation to whole blood donation. More results focused on health-related beliefs than experiences (82 vs. 18%), specific rather than general beliefs and experiences (80 vs. 20%) and more frequently examined negative than positive beliefs and experiences (83 vs. 17%). The most commonly studied and reported specific negative beliefs related to increased risk of infectious disease, reduced vitality, vasovagal reactions and low iron. Most studies examining specific negative beliefs were conducted in Asian countries.
-
9.
Men who have sex with men and risk for transfusion-transmissible infections in blood donors in Western countries: A systematic review update
Schroyens, N., Borra, V., Compernolle, V., Vandekerckhove, P., De Buck, E.
Vox sanguinis. 2023
-
-
-
-
Editor's Choice
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES This systematic review update summarizes evidence concerning transfusion-transmissible infections (TTIs) in male blood donors reporting sex with another man (MSM) or after easing the MSM deferral period. MATERIALS AND METHODS We searched five databases, including studies comparing MSM versus non-MSM donors (Type I), MSM deferral periods (Type II) or infected versus non-infected donors (Type III) in Western countries, and used GRADE to determine evidence certainty. RESULTS Twenty-five observational studies were included. Four Type I studies suggest that there may be an increased risk for overall TTIs, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV) and syphilis in MSM donors, but the evidence is very uncertain. There was insufficient evidence of MSM with low-risk sexual behaviour. A Type II study indicates that easing the MSM deferral period to 1 year may have little to no effect on TTI risk. TTI prevalence in blood donors under 5-year, 1-year, 3-month or risk-based deferral in eight other Type II studies was too low to provide clear conclusions on the effect of easing the deferral. Three Type III studies reported that MSM may be a risk factor for HIV. Increased risk of HBV, hepatitis C virus and HTLV-I/II could not be shown. The evidence from Type III studies is very uncertain. CONCLUSION There may be an increased risk of HIV in MSM blood donors. Shortening the deferral from permanent to 1 year may have little to no effect on TTI risk. However, there is limited, unclear evidence from observational studies concerning the impact of introducing 3-month or risk-based deferrals.
PICO Summary
Population
Blood donors or people eligible to give blood, living in Australia, Canada, Europe, New Zealand and USA (25 observational studies).
Intervention
Systematic review summarizing published studies on the relation between men who have had sex with another man (MSM) or an MSM deferral policy and the risk of transfusion-transmissible infections (TTI) markers in donated blood.
Comparison
Outcome
The three types of included studies compared: MSM vs. non-MSM donors (Type I); MSM deferral periods (Type II); and infected vs. non-infected donors (Type III). Four Type I studies suggested that there may be an increased risk for overall TTIs, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV) and syphilis in MSM donors, but the evidence was very uncertain. There was insufficient evidence of MSM with low-risk sexual behaviour. A Type II study indicated that easing the MSM deferral period to 1 year may have little to no effect on TTI risk. TTI prevalence in blood donors under 5-year, 1-year, 3-month or risk-based deferral in eight other Type II studies was too low to provide clear conclusions on the effect of easing the deferral. Three Type III studies reported that MSM may be a risk factor for HIV. Increased risk of HBV, hepatitis C virus and HTLV-I/II could not be shown. The evidence from Type III studies was very uncertain.
-
10.
Next Generation Sequencing of Red Blood Cell Antigens in Transfusion Medicine: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Matosinho, C. G. R., Silva, C. G. R., Martins, M. L., Silva-Malta, M. C. F.
Transfusion medicine reviews. 2023;:150776
-
-
-
Full text
-
Editor's Choice
Abstract
Molecular analysis of blood groups is important in transfusion medicine, allowing the prediction of red blood cell (RBC) antigens. Many blood banks use single nucleotide variant (SNV) based methods for blood group analysis. While this is a well-established approach, it is limited to the polymorphisms included in genotyping panels. Thus, variants that alter antigenic expression may be ignored, resulting in incorrect prediction of phenotypes. The popularization of next-generation sequencing (NGS) has led to its application in transfusion medicine, including for RBC antigens determination. The present review/meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the applicability of the NGS for the prediction of RBC antigens. A systematic review was conducted following a comprehensive literature search in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis guidelines. Studies were selected based on predefined criteria and evaluated using Strengthening the Reporting of Observational studies in Epidemiology guidelines. The characteristics and results of the studies were extracted and meta-analysis was performed to verify the agreement between results from standard molecular methods and NGS. Kell (rs8176058), Duffy (rs2814778, rs12078), or Kidd (rs1085396) alleles were selected as a model for comparisons. Additionally, results are presented for other blood group systems. Of the 864 eligible studies identified, 10 met the inclusion criteria and were selected for meta-analysis. The pooled concordance proportion for NGS compared to other methods ranged from 0.982 to 0.994. The sequencing depth coverage was identified as crucial parameters for the reliability of the results. Some studies reported difficulty in analyzing more complex systems, such as Rh and MNS, requiring the adoption of specific strategies. NGS is a technology capable of predicting blood group phenotypes and has many strengths such as the possibility of simultaneously analyzing hundred individuals and gene regions, and the ability to provide comprehensive genetic analysis, which is useful in the description of new alleles and a better understanding of the genetic basis of blood groups. The implementation of NGS in the routine of blood banks depends on several factors such as cost reduction, the availability of widely validated panels, the establishment of clear quality parameters and access to bioinformatics analysis tools that are easy to access and operate.
PICO Summary
Population
Blood donors and recipients (10 studies).
Intervention
Next-generation sequencing (NGS) for the prediction of red blood cell (RBC) antigens.
Comparison
Other RBC molecular analysis.
Outcome
A meta-analysis was performed to verify the agreement between results from standard molecular methods and NGS. Kell (rs8176058), Duffy (rs2814778, rs12078), or Kidd (rs1085396) alleles were selected as a model for comparisons. The pooled concordance proportion for NGS compared to other methods ranged from 0.982 to 0.994. The sequencing depth coverage was identified as crucial parameters for the reliability of the results. Some studies reported difficulty in analyzing more complex systems, such as Rh and MNS, requiring the adoption of specific strategies.