Documented cases of post-transfusion malaria occurring in England: a review in relation to current and proposed donor-selection guidelines

Abstract

Background and objectives: Although uncommon, five cases of transfusion-transmitted malaria have been documented in England over the last 20 years. With the reappearance onto the market of high-quality malaria antibody assays, and by utilizing the results of analysis of these five cases, it has been possible to review the donor malaria-deferral guidelines.

Materials and methods: Details of the five cases of post-transfusion malaria were reviewed against the proposed new donor-deferral guidelines for malaria.

Results: Three of the five cases of post-transfusion malaria were directly attributable to the deferral guidelines, allowing infectious donors to be bled.

Conclusions: The proposed new guidelines will prevent further cases of transmission from semi-immune individuals.