Current testing on all donor blood must include testing for which of the following?

Current testing on all donor blood must include testing for which of the following?

• A. HIV-1 Antibodies by ELISA
• B. Serological test for syphilis
• C. HBsAg
• D. HCV RNA

Answer: (B)

Donor blood is screened for infectious diseases before it can be used. Among the options, testing for syphilis by serology is the test that is routinely included for every donor unit. This serologic screen detects infection with Treponema pallidum and helps prevent transmission of syphilis through transfusion, a standard safety measure in blood banks. While HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C testing are also important and commonly performed, the universally mandated baseline screen among these choices is the serologic test for syphilis.

Donor blood is screened for infectious diseases before it can be used. Among the options, testing for syphilis by serology is the test that is routinely included for every donor unit. This serologic screen detects infection with Treponema pallidum and helps prevent transmission of syphilis through transfusion, a standard safety measure in blood banks. While HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C testing are also important and commonly performed, the universally mandated baseline screen among these choices is the serologic test for syphilis.