Comparison of HIV-1 detection in plasma specimens and dried blood spots using the Roche COBAS Ampliscreen HIV-1 test in Kisumu, Kenya

► Centralized HIV screening of donor blood units is a key blood safety principle. ► In resource-limited settings, transport of wet specimens is a challenge. ► HIV detection limits with dried blood spots using the COBAS Ampliscreen were studied. ► Detection limits are within FDA guidelines for individual dried blood spots. ► Further optimization is needed pooled dried blood spot screening.