Transmission of parasites and bacteria by blood components

Background and Objectives: Although most attention has been paid to viral i nfections as a complication of transfusion, some parasitic infections are r eadily transmissible and generate a heavy burden of disease, particularly i n the developing world. Additionally, bacterial infection as a result of tr ansfusion is the most frequent serious outcome of transfusion in the develo ped world. Materials and Methods: Review of current literature and ongoing research studies. Results: Malaria and Chagas' disease continue to be a ser ious problem in endemic areas, but are also of concern as a result of their introduction into other regions. Means to control or detect bacterial cont amination, particularly of platelet concentrates, are needed, but no simple , effective approach is available. Conclusion: Continued development and im plementation of tests and of inactivation procedures will result in the eve ntual control of transfusion-transmitted parasitic and bacterial disease.