Recent experience with human immunodeficiency virus transmission by cellular blood products in Germany:: antibody screening is not sufficient to prevent transmission

Background and Objectives A case of transfusion-related human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) transmission was not detected by standard HIV antibody screening. Materials and Methods In a look-back procedure, the preceding donations were extensively analyzed by nucleic acid amplification technology (NAT) screening and alternative serological tests. Results The chain of infection could be demonstrated by the analysis of HIV-specific amplicon sequences from the donor and the recipient. Conclusion This case report clearly indicates that the remaining risk of transfusion-related transmission of HIV could be severely reduced, not only by the use of NAT screening but even by HIV antigen screening or more sensitive HIV antibody assays.