TRANSMISSION OF PARASITES BY BLOOD-TRANSF USION AND ORGAN-TRANSPLANTATION

Objectives: The purpose of the present study consists in an updated re view concerning the transmission of protozoa and worms by blood transf usion and organ transplantation. Prophylactic regimens and possible mo difications will be discussed. Data sources: The literature devoted to tropical medicine in recent years was screened and a search on Medlin e was performed. Relevant review articles were selected. Results: Tran sfusion induced malaria and - especially in Latin America - transfusio n associated Chagas' disease are the most important of these diseases. Prophylaxis of transfusion malaria is different in different countrie s, it is based primarily on donor selection and immunodiagnostic exami nations. Conclusions: It is recommended that the German guidelines for prevention of transfusion malaria should be modified and that a donor selection should also take place concerning Chagas' disease.