Pathogen reduction technology for blood component: A promising solution for prevention of emerging infectious disease and bacterial contamination in blood transfusion services

With the rapid evolving of emerging pathogens and residual risk of bacterial contamination in platelets, they continue to pose a constant threat to the safety of blood supply despite effort implemented to mitigate such risk via conventional measures and testing. Three photochemical based advanced pathogen reduction technology (PRT) that utilize amotosalen, riboflavin and UVC only offer some of the unique advantages over conventional approaches. They have demonstrated superior pathogen reduction capability against various emerging viruses, bacteria, parasites and leukocytes, as well as acceptable safety and clinical efficacy based on reports, studies and clinical trials. Although concern related to cost and adverse transfusion reaction of PRT application remains, with further study and continue improvement, future PRT will continue to play a paramount role in assuring the safety of blood and blood products.