Which test must be included in all donor blood testing?

The inclusion of a serological test for syphilis in all donor blood testing is crucial for ensuring the safety of the blood supply. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, which can be transmitted through blood transfusions if not detected. By performing this test, blood banks can identify and prevent the use of infected blood, thus reducing the risk of transmission to recipients. Syphilis testing is part of standard blood screening practices to ensure that all donated blood meets safety standards for infectious diseases.

While other tests, such as complete Rh phenotyping, anti-CMV testing, and the direct antiglobulin test, play important roles in specific contexts or populations, they are not universally required for all donor blood. The serological test for syphilis, however, is a mandated component of the testing protocol that addresses a significant concern in transfusion medicine, thereby ensuring both donor and recipient safety.