Cytomegalovirus‐selected blood components in allogeneic stem cell transplantation: A follow‐up survey of English transplant centre practices

Background Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality after allogeneic stem cell transplantation (aSCT). In 2012, the UK Advisory Committee for the Safety of Tissues and Organs (SaBTO) recommended that CMV‐unselected (CMV‐U) blood components could be safely transfused to this population without increasing the risk of transfusion‐transmitted CMV (TTI‐CMV). A 2015 survey of UK transplant centres found that 22.7% of aSCT centres did not follow this recommendation. In response, a subsequent good practice paper addressed concerns regarding the determination of pre‐transplant CMV serostatus. Annual Serious Hazards of Transfusion (SHOT) reports continue to reassure, with no emerging safety concerns linked to the increased use of CMV‐U blood components in this setting. Objectives To clarify changes in English practice regarding the provision of CMV‐U blood components for potential allogeneic stem cell recipients and to identify factors contributing to the continued use of CMV‐seronegative (CMV‐N) blood components outside SaBTO recommendations. Methods We surveyed English aSCT centres to establish current practices and perceptions. Results Of the 32 English transplant centres, 28 responded (88%), 19 adult and nine paediatric centres; 10.7% continue to provide CMV‐N components to all CMV‐N potential aSCT recipients. Cited reasons include concerns for patients with primary immunodeficiency syndromes and a misperception that TTI‐CMV is a ‘never event’. Furthermore, 17.9% of centres continue to provide CMV‐N components contrary to SaBTO recommendations, citing risks of CMV disease in primary immunodeficiency syndromes, resolution of ambiguous CMV serostatus, and HIV infection. Conclusion Adherence to SaBTO guidance on transfusion of CMV‐U blood components to aSCT recipients continues to improve, but further changes are likely to be challenging, based on the survey responses received and may require international collaboration.