[Systematic detection of anti-HIV antibodies in donors before keratoplasty: justification and practical modalities]

Abstract

We recall the medical obligation to perform an HIV serology on corneal donors before keratoplasty. The ways to take samples of blood from a deceased person and the techniques which detect HIV antibodies are discussed. We emphasize on the contribution of preservation mediums in order to complete the investigations on the etiology of the death in non urgent keratoplasty. We also insist on the contribution of ELISA techniques to rapidly obtain the HIV serology in non urgent corneal grafts. The real risks of transmitting HIV virus during keratoplasty are discussed.