Resolving variable maternal D typing using serology and genotyping in selected prenatal patients.

Background: RhIG prophylaxis for D- pregnant women prevents hemolytic disease of the newborn and typically depends on results of serologic D typing. Interpretation and follow-up of weak D serology is variable. Recent recommendations promote genotyping for RHD status determination in those with weak D serology.

Intermittent bacteremia detected in an asymptomatic apheresis platelet donor with repeat positive culture for Escherichia coli: a case report.

Background: Bacterial culture of platelet concentrates (PCs) has been implemented to reduce the risk of infectious transfusion events. Most positive cultures are for skin flora or environmental organisms with no underlying pathology associated in the donor. Less frequently, enteric organisms have been isolated from PCs indicating asymptomatic donor bacteremia.

West Nile virus in Canadian blood donors.

Background: Blood donation screening for West Nile virus (WNV) RNA by nucleic acid testing (NAT) was implemented in Canada in July 2003, and 14 WNV RNA-positive donations were identified. Samples were screened in minipools of six donations with a WNV assay (TaqScreen, Roche). Two of the donors were identified by single-donor screening that was initiated in the province of Saskatchewan, which had the highest prevalence of WNV in the country, in early September 2003.