Parameters of infection in replacement and voluntary donors in the western part of Turkey

BackgroundAccording to our center's experiences familial/replacement donors (FRDs) frequently donate blood for the first time in their lives. Therefore, results of infection parameters are expected to be different voluntary donors (VDs), at similar rates to the population. The present study aimed to investigate if there were any difference in VDs and FRDs in terms of infection parameters.ObjectiveThe blood donation records over 6 years (2004–2010) were reviewed, retrospectively. HBsAg, anti-HCV, anti-HIV screening tests were performed by ELISA and syphilis screening was performed by the RPR method.Material and MethodsOut of 71.217, 16.727 donors donated whole blood as FRD. Among the whole blood donated by FRD, the positives for HBsAg, anti-HCV and RPR were 1.23%, 0.37%, and 0.07%, respectively. Confirmed anti-HIV screening test was not observed in this group. Positivities for HBsAg, anti-HCV, anti-HIV and RPR in VD were 1.36%, 0.42%, 0.004%, and 0.04%, respectively.ResultsWhen FRD and VD were analyzed statistically, HBsAg rates were significantly higher among FRD in the years 2004, 2007 and 2008, whereas they were significantly high among VD in year 2005. HBsAg rates stated in the years 2006–2009 were insignificant. Significantly high results were observed in HCV rates in the year 2005 among VD, whereas insignificant levels were observed in other years. HIV rates were insignificant among VD in the years 2004 and 2005, confirmed positivity was established in only one patient. Values in all years in RPR rates were statistically insignificant. Grouping donors as replacement and voluntary has no importance in infection parameters.ConclusionGrouping donors as replacement and voluntary has no importance in infection parameters. Appropriate donor inquiries and screening of infection parameters by reliable proven tests preserve their significances.