TRANSFUSION TRANSMISSIBLE INFECTIONS (TTI’s) - HIV by David Chama - University of Zambia, School of Health Sciences/Biomedical Sciences-unza

Description

This comprehensive lecture by David Chama from the University of Zambia, School of Health Sciences/Biomedical Sciences, provides an in-depth examination of HIV as a critical Transfusion Transmissible Infection. It begins with an overview of mandatory blood screening in Zambia for HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and Syphilis. The presentation covers the historical background of HIV/AIDS, its epidemiology, classification, and global distribution. It explains the virus's structure, transmission routes including parenteral, sexual, and perinatal, and the pathogenesis leading to AIDS. A significant focus is placed on the window period and the stages of Primary HIV Infection, detailing virological and immunological changes. The core of the material delves into laboratory diagnosis, outlining various screening strategies and the principles behind key assays such as Indirect ELISA, Combination Ag/Ab assays, Competitive ELISA, Particle Agglutination, and specialized rapid tests. It discusses the use of recombinant antigens and synthetic peptides, along with confirmatory methods like Western Blot and PCR. The lecture concludes by emphasizing the importance of test sensitivity, specificity, and appropriate algorithms for blood safety, connecting laboratory science to broader public health strategies for prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and care. This resource is essential for biomedical science students, laboratory technicians, and healthcare professionals in Zambia seeking to understand the virology, serology, and practical laboratory management of HIV in the context of transfusion medicine and blood bank operations. Utilize this detailed guide to enhance your competence in ensuring blood safety and managing HIV testing protocols.