Abstract

 Background and Objectives

 In order to identify acutely infected blood donors before seroconversion and to reduce the potential risk of transfusion-associated hepatitis C, the detection of HCV RNA by NAT has therefore been introduced recently in several developed countries. In this study, the molecular screening of HCV RNA among anti-HCV negative blood donors was carried out in Iranian Blood Transfusion Organization Research Center, Tehran.

 Materials and Methods

 Eight thousand samples negative for anti-HCV (EIA, third generation) were screened for HCV RNA in 25 mini-pools. A total of 320 mini-pools were tested using RT-PCR method for qualitative detection of HCV RNA, with a lower limit of detection of 200 IU/ml.

 Results

 All samples tested by RT-PCR method were negative for HCV RNA. On initial testing, two false positive results were defined as positive but on repeat single testing they came out to be negative.

 Conclusions

 HCV RNA detection by PCR can be carried out routinely without any significant delay in release of blood components. The residual risk of transmission can be reduced by identification of early infection which can lead to an improvement in safety of blood components. It was also shown that combined screening using anti-HCV and 25-mini-pool HCV RNA testing can be both useful and cost-effective.

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  Key words : RT-PCR , Blood donors , ELISA , Plasma , Anti-HCV Antibodies