What should be done when an EIA screening test for HTLV I/II is repeatedly reactive but the confirmatory test is negative?

What should be done when an EIA screening test for HTLV I/II is repeatedly reactive but the confirmatory test is negative?

• A. Accepted
• B. Deferred
• C. Told that only plasma can be made from his donation
• D. Told to come back in 6 months

Answer: (A)

When an EIA screening test for HTLV I/II yields repeated reactivity but the follow-up confirmatory test is negative, it indicates a situation commonly referred to as a "false positive" EIA result. In such cases, the best practice is to accept the donation because the confirmatory test has provided negative results, suggesting that the initial screening result may not be indicative of true infection. The primary goal in blood banking is to ensure the safety and reliability of blood products. A positive screening test followed by a negative confirmatory test signifies that the donor is not actually infected with HTLV I/II, so the donation should be regarded as acceptable for use. This approach aligns with standardized guidelines in serological testing where only conclusive proof of infection warrants deferral or other actions. It’s important to confirm that other potential reactivity factors have been considered, and if the negative result from the confirmatory test holds, the donor can proceed without concerns about spreading the virus. This decision helps balance the need for effective blood donation practices with patient safety.

When an EIA screening test for HTLV I/II yields repeated reactivity but the follow-up confirmatory test is negative, it indicates a situation commonly referred to as a "false positive" EIA result. In such cases, the best practice is to accept the donation because the confirmatory test has provided negative results, suggesting that the initial screening result may not be indicative of true infection.

The primary goal in blood banking is to ensure the safety and reliability of blood products. A positive screening test followed by a negative confirmatory test signifies that the donor is not actually infected with HTLV I/II, so the donation should be regarded as acceptable for use. This approach aligns with standardized guidelines in serological testing where only conclusive proof of infection warrants deferral or other actions.

It’s important to confirm that other potential reactivity factors have been considered, and if the negative result from the confirmatory test holds, the donor can proceed without concerns about spreading the virus. This decision helps balance the need for effective blood donation practices with patient safety.