Detection of an early HIV-1 infection by HIV RNA testing in an Italian blood donor during the preseroconversion window period

Transfusion. 2003 Jul;43(7):848-52. doi: 10.1046/j.1537-2995.2003.00423.x.

Abstract

Background: The implementation of NAT technologies for HIV screening has further reduced the diagnostic window in recent HIV infection. There is still a debate regarding the cost effectiveness of genomic screening of blood donations for transfusion-transmitted viruses (HBV, HCV, HIV).

Study design and methods: Since October 2001, at the Transfusion Service of Verona, single-donation NAT testing for HCV and HIV-1 (Procleix TMA HIV-1/HCV Assay) of all blood donations has been performed.

Case report: A case of acute HIV-1 infection detected by HIV NAT in a repeat blood donor who donated during the preseroconversion window period is reported. All blood components donated were discarded, and the donor started antiretroviral therapy 2 weeks after blood donation. HIV-1 p24 antigen was still negative 10 days after the HIV-1 RNA-positive blood donation. Seroconversion was documented by Day 41 after donation.

Conclusion: This case report testifies that HIV NAT screening of blood donation is effective in preventing the transmission of HIV infection through blood components.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / drug therapy
  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / virology
  • Adult
  • Antiretroviral Therapy, Highly Active
  • Blood Donors*
  • HIV Core Protein p24 / blood
  • HIV Seropositivity / virology*
  • HIV-1 / genetics*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • RNA, Viral / blood*

Substances

  • HIV Core Protein p24
  • RNA, Viral