Toxoplasmosis - Cord Blood

Essential information

Obligatory

Must not donate if:

Maternal recovery less than six months before this pregnancy.

Supporting information

Additional information

This is a common parasitic infection, often spread by cat faeces or eating undercooked meat. It can be spread through transfusion. It may have serious consequences or even prove fatal for the recipient. Usually it does not cause symptoms, as the body's immune system easily overcomes the parasite. If the infection has caused symptoms that has led to it being diagnosed, waiting six months from recovery will make it unlikely that it will be passed on by donation.

A cord blood bank might undertake testing for toxoplasma, usually in the form of serological testing of the maternal donor. This is not a mandatory test, however it is recommended by SaBTO. The donation should not be released for clinical use if IgM positive.

Reason for change:

To clarify that testing is not mandatory and that absence of a test is not a cause for deferral.

Version details:

CB-DSG Edition 203 Release 41 (04 August 2021)