Molecular tests are the norm in Western countries
BHOPAL: The technology used in India for molecular blood testing stands is outdated when compared to western countries where molecular tests are done at DNA level to make sure that there is no ambiguity in blood group of a person. This was discussed in Transmedcon 2016, the 5th National Annual Symposium on ‘Safe blood’ which began on Friday.
Dr Andreas Kuhkorber, Transfusion medicine, Germany informed that they have been using DNA level of testing for molecular blood test and that has given significant results in safer blood transfusion. Every second person in Germany undergoes DNA level test. The technology used is still not available in India while this is being used in western countries since last 15 years.
The symposium also witnessed presentation of 70 researchers and delegates from across the nation. Inaugurated by Minister Bhopal Gas Tragedy Relief and Rehabilitation, Cooperative and Rural Development, Vishwas Sarang; Dr R.K. Choudhary, SGPGI, Dr Surendra Singh, Dr Manisha Shrivastav, Dr Sangeeta Pathak and Dr Atul Kulkarni were also present.
Dealing with ‘window period’ in HIV infections
Dr R.N Makroo, Transfusion medicine, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi informed that Bhopal does not yet have the facility of ID NAT (Individual donor Nucleic Acid Test) for HIV, Hepatitis A,B and C and leukoreduction for blood transfusion. “There is a serological window period in which a person can transmit virus to others although the HIV infection may not have been found in antibody test. When one donates blood, it is possible that blood is infected with HIV but is left undetected due to the window period. To avoid this Individual Donor testing is needed, where each sample is tested separately for NAT. Also, leukoreduced blood should be given to patients, to reduce the chances of reaction antibodies. The In Line Filter used for this is cost effective and this should be adopted by all the blood banks immediately”
Dr Kabita Chatterjee, Transfusion Medicine, AIIMS Delhi, said that when blood is tested and processed traces of bacteria are left. “Using Pathogen Reduction Technology, in my research we found that bacteria can be destroyed and we will now try this test for HIV, Hepatitis B and C”, she said.
