Background: Blood transfusion is a life-saving method in emergencies. However, it also carries the risk of pathogen transmission, which is called transfusion transmitted infections (TTIs). All donated blood samples were screened for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), anti-hepatitis C virus antibody (anti-HCV), anti-human immunodeficiency virus antigens (anti-HIV½) and syphilis using Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL) test.

This study was designed and carried out to determine the seroprevalences of TTIs among blood donors with different ABO and Rh blood groups. Identification of a relation between different blood groups and TTIs was anticipated.

Methods: All blood donors data obtained from the Blood Center of Marmara University Pendik Training and Research Hospital between January 2013 and October 2018 are analyzed retrospectively. Serum samples were examined for HBsAg, anti-HCV, anti-HIV½, and VDRL.

Results: HBsAg and anti-HIV½ positivity positivity rates were not statistically different according to ABO blood groups (p>0.05). Anti-HCV positivity rates are partially statistically significant (p<0.05). While the incidence of anti-HCV in patients with AB Rh (+) cases was significantly higher than that of 0 Rh (+), A Rh (+) and AB Rh (+) groups, no significant difference was found for the other analyzed blood groups (p>0.05). VDRL positivity rates did not differ significantly (p>0.05). Seropositive cases, as reported by Rh type blood group; HBsAg, anti-HCV, anti-HIV½, and VDRL positivity rates were not statistically significant (p>0.05).

Conclusions: No significant relationship was found among TTIs and ABO and Rh type blood groups. For blood transfusion safety, screening tests should always and carefully be performed.

Canan Eren