An Overview of Transfusion-Transmitted Infectious Agents among Blood Donors in Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND: The safety of donated blood during transfusion is important; however, blood donation can entail risks owing to contamination of the blood with transfusion-transmitted infections (TTIs). Ensuring the safety of blood and blood components is a major global goal to guarantee their availability to patients. Unsafe blood not only affects the patients but also extends the risk to their partners, contributing to the spread of TTIs and posing a burden on society. This review emphasizes the trends and prevalence of TTIs among blood donors in Saudi Arabia over the years. METHODS: A systemic search of the main electronic databases were conducted for publications on TTIs among blood donors in Saudi Arabia. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of TTIs among blood donors varies from province to province with a higher incidence observed among older individuals. Despite an overall decline in TTIs among blood donors in the country, the frequency of these infections persists among donors. In addition, screening tests for occult HBV should be considered. CONCLUSIONS: The overall findings regarding TTIs in Saudi Arabia vary by province, with a higher incidence observed among older individuals. Comprehensive investigations into the overall incidence of TTIs in Saudi Arabia are warranted, with extensive studies from different regions and blood donation centers.