What is it about?
We evaluated the presence of T. pallidum DNA using real‐time PCR, a sensitive molecular method, in blood donors with two different serologic tests profiles for syphilis.
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Why is it important?
A subset of blood donors with a particular serologic profile, suggestive of recent syphilis infection, carried T. pallidum DNA and were potentially at risk of transmit syphillis by transfusion.
Perspectives
Serologic tests may still play a role to prevent transfusion‐transmitted syphilis, especially in countries where the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections is elevated and donors are exposed to high‐risk behaviours. The recognition and referral of donors with T. pallidum DNA+ to seek care can disrupt syphilis contamination chain and bring benefits to the society at large.
Dr Cesar de Almeida-Neto
Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Prevalence ofTreponema pallidumDNA among blood donors with two different serologic tests profiles for syphilis in São Paulo, Brazil, Vox Sanguinis, November 2013, Wiley,
DOI: 10.1111/vox.12111.
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