Can Individuals Cured of Hepatitis C Donate Blood?

Introduction

Donating blood is a noble act that can save lives. However, certain medical histories can make an individual ineligible to donate. Hepatitis C is one such condition. This article explores whether individuals who have been cured of hepatitis C can donate blood, providing insights based on medical guidelines and scientific understanding.

The Eligibility for Blood Donation

Some individuals with a history of hepatitis C can donate blood, provided they meet specific criteria set by blood donation organizations. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Red Cross, people who have successfully completed treatment for hepatitis C and are no longer infected can generally donate blood.

Importance of Medical History Disclosure

It is crucial for potential donors to disclose their complete medical history during the screening process. Blood donation organizations may have their own specific guidelines. Always checking with the organization where you plan to donate is advised to ensure you meet all requirements.

Understanding the Immune Response to Hepatitis C

Contrary to common belief, hepatitis C is a viral infection that cannot be "fought off naturally." Once contracted, it remains within the body. This means that even if an individual has been cured of hepatitis C, they will still test positive for the virus due to the presence of antibodies.

Antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system to combat the virus. When blood is tested for hepatitis C, an antibody test is used. If you have hepatitis C antibodies, your blood will not be accepted, regardless of whether the active virus is present or not. This is a legal requirement as stipulated by federal laws and scientific evidence.

Personal Experience and Insights

As a retired Medical Laboratory Technologist, I can share my personal experience of contracting hepatitis C in 1984. A breach in my finger while processing a patient's blood sample exposed me to a virus-containing sample. As I share my experience, it is important to note that if you have ever tested positive for hepatitis C, you are not eligible to donate blood. This includes platelets, lymphocytes, red blood cells, plasma, bone marrow, tissues, organs before or after death, and corneas.

After undergoing treatment for 12 weeks with SOFOSBUVIR/VELPATASVIR, my post-treatment blood tests were negative for the active virus. However, the pre- and post-treatment blood tests differ. Blood banks use a less expensive screening test that detects antibodies, not the active virus. Therefore, even those who are no longer actively infected with hepatitis C cannot donate blood.

New Approaches to Organ Transplantation

For individuals in need of organ transplants, new approaches are being explored. Some transplant centers offer 'High Risk' organs, which carry the risk of having antibodies to hepatitis C. Donors in this program receive treatment for hepatitis C post-surgery, allowing them a higher chance of survival and faster removal from the transplant list. Having such information is crucial for both donors and recipients, as it provides alternative options for organ donation.

Conclusion

While individuals who have been cured of hepatitis C can donate blood under certain conditions, the primary issue lies in the long-term presence of hepatitis C antibodies. These antibodies prevent individuals from donating blood, as current testing methods do not differentiate between active infection and historical exposure. Understanding the guidelines set by blood donation organizations and personal medical history is essential for anyone considering donating blood.