Detection of hepatitis B virus DNA (PCR) in HBsAg negative, anti-HBc positive blood donors in Tehran province

Background and ObjectivesThe incidence of post transfusion hepatitis has been reduced by blood donor screening for HBsAg, but the HBV infection is still responsible for certain cases of post-transfusion hepatitis world-wide. An estimate of the rate of HBV DNA and anti-HBc positive units is important for evaluation of the need for anti-HBc blood donor screening. In this study, the HBsAg negative blood units were evaluated for anti-HBc and all of anti-HBc positive units were tested for HBV DNA by PCR method. Materials and MethodsExtra samples were collected from 2000 HBsAg, anti-HCV, anti-HIV and RPR-negative blood donors. All of the samples were examined by the approved anti-HBc assay. All anti-HBc positive samples were tested by anti-HBs assays and evaluated for HBV DNA (PCR). The sensitivity of the HBV DNA (PCR) assasy was estimated to be 300 geq/ml according to VQC proficiency panels. Results230 (11.5%) out of 2000 samples were positive for anti-HBc. 179 (77.8%) out of 230 anti-HBc positive samples were HBsAb positive, and 51(23.2%) HBsAb negative. All 230 samples were assayed for single HBV DNA (PCR) 227 of which came out to be negative for HBV DNA (PCR). Three blood donors were recalled and new samples from two of whom were collected. These new samples were negative for HBV DNA. ConclusionsFurther study for evaluation of HBV DNA in anti-HBc positive blood units with full automatic instruments and usage of blood bags with accessories is strongly recommended.