Immunodeficiency - Whole Blood and Components

Essential information

Includes

Immunosuppression

Obligatory

Must not donate if:

1. Diagnosed with a congenital or acquired condition causing immunodeficiency with increased susceptibility to infection.
2. Immunosuppressed due to drug treatment.

Discretionary

1.Donors taking immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory therapy to treat autoimmune disease:

Refer to the Autoimmune disease entry.

2. Donors with recovered immunosuppression:

If the underlying cause does not preclude donation, refer to a DCSO.

3. IgA deficiency:

If not experiencing frequent infections, accept.

Supporting information

See if relevant

• Autoimmune disease
• Immunoglobulin therapy
• Monoclonal antibody therapy and other biological modalities
• Steroid therapy

Additional information

Immunodeficiency can mask the body's normal response to some infectious and inflammatory conditions. This could result in diseases that may be transmitted by donation from being missed by the Blood Services. If a donor reports recovery from immunodeficiency or, if the underlying cause was unclear, refer to a Designated Clinical Support Officer.

IgA deficiency is relatively common. Most people with this condition are healthy but some individuals may experience frequent infections, especially of the ears, sinuses, gut and lungs. Some blood services may screen donors for IgA deficiency to provide a supply of IgA-deficient blood components.

Reason for change:

Entry reworded, with addition of a discretionary section to improve clarity and provide guidance for donors with IgA deficiency. New links added.

Version details:

WB-DSG Edition 203 Release 71 (02 May 2024)