Deadly Brain Disease May be Transmitted Through Blood Transfusions, Raising Alarm Among Experts
London, UK - A rare and fatal brain disease, cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA), is under intense scrutiny following research suggesting a potential link to blood transfusions. The findings, stemming from a study of patients between November 2023 and January 2024, have prompted concern among medical professionals about the safety of blood supplies, even as authorities maintain current systems are robust.
CAA typically affects individuals in thier 70s and 80s, but the recent research identified cases appearing decades earlier. The condition, where amyloid protein builds up in the walls of brain arteries, can lead to hemorrhage and dementia. When CAA develops after a medical procedure, it is termed iatrogenic CAA (ICAA).
Researchers screening 35 patients with CAA discovered that two (6%) had received blood transfusions in childhood, years before symptom onset. Both individuals were diagnosed with severe CAA at the unusually young ages of 47 and 57. This discovery raises the possibility that amyloid protein can be transmitted through blood products, even if infrequently.
“If blood transfusions can spread amyloid protein, even rarely, this would have vital consequences for blood safety,” researchers stated.
NHS Blood and Transplant acknowledged the emerging risks and emphasized increased awareness and responsiveness within the blood safety system. “scientists and doctors are much more aware of emerging risks than in the past. The blood safety system is also much more responsive to those risks,” a spokesperson said. “The current systems in place are more effective in maintaining the safety of the blood supply than ever before. We currently have one of the safest blood supplies in the world.”
The association is awaiting the outcome of a review by SaBTO,the UK’s Advisory Committee on the Safety of Blood,Tissues and Organs,which will inform potential guidance for ministers.
“The potential risks around iatrogenic cerebral amyloid angiopathy and blood transfusions are unknown,” the NHS Blood and Transplant spokesperson continued. “However, it is important to remember that while we have extensive blood safety systems in place, all blood transfusions are not, and never will be, without risk. That is why it is indeed critically important that all blood transfusions are given only when necessary.”
