Immunodeficiency

Immunosuppression

Must not donate if:

a) Diagnosed with a congenital or acquired condition causing immunodeficiency with increased susceptibility to infection.
 

b) Immunosuppressed due to drug treatment.

1. Donors taking immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory therapy to treat autoimmune disease
Refer to the Autoimmune Disease entry.
 

2. Donors with recovered immunosuppression
If the underlying cause does not preclude donation, refer to the DCSO.
 

3. IgA deficiency
If not experiencing frequent infections, accept.

Autoimmune Disease
Immunoglobulin Therapy
Monoclonal antibody therapy and other Biological Modalities
Steroid Therapy

Immunodeficiency can mask the body's normal response to some infectious and inflammatory conditions. This could result in diseases that may be transmitted by donation from being missed by the Blood Services. If a donor reports recovery from immunodeficiency or, if the underlying cause was unclear, refer to a 'Designated Clinical Support Officer'.
 

IgA deficiency is relatively common. Most people with this condition are healthy but some individuals may experience frequent infections, especially of the ears, sinuses, gut and lungs. Some blood services may screen donors for IgA deficiency to provide a supply of IgA-deficient blood components.

Entry reworded, with addition of a discretionary section to improve clarity and provide guidance for donors with IgA deficiency. New links added.

If you wish to obtain more information regarding a personal medical issue please contact your National Help Line.

Please do not contact this web site for personal medical queries, as we are not in a position to provide individual answers.