Understanding Plasma Donation Deferrals
Plasma is a vital component of blood used to create therapies for individuals with immune system disorders, blood clotting deficiencies, and other serious health conditions [1, 9]. The screening process for donors is rigorous to protect the health of recipients, meaning many people are deferred, either temporarily or permanently, from donating. These deferrals are not a judgment of health but a necessary precaution to maintain the safety and purity of the plasma supply.
Permanent Medical Disqualifications
Some medical conditions result in a lifetime ban from donating plasma. This is typically due to a risk of transmitting infectious diseases or because the donation process could harm the donor's health. Key permanent disqualifiers include:
- HIV/AIDS: A confirmed positive test for HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is an absolute permanent deferral [1, 2].
- Hepatitis B or C: Individuals who have tested positive for Hepatitis B or C are permanently disqualified from donating plasma [1, 2].
- Certain Cancers: Most types of cancer will lead to a permanent deferral, though some very minor skin cancers may be an exception. It is essential to discuss your specific history with the donation center [1, 3].
- Heart Conditions: Some serious or chronic heart conditions can prevent donation [1, 3]. The safety of the donor during the process is paramount, and certain heart issues can increase risks. A history of some heart conditions will result in permanent disqualification.
- Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD): A rare and fatal neurodegenerative disease, CJD (and variant CJD) can be transmitted through blood products. Individuals who have received a human pituitary growth hormone or have spent significant time in certain European countries during specific timeframes may be deferred [1, 6].
Temporary Deferrals Based on Health, Travel, and Procedures
Many factors can lead to a temporary deferral, meaning you can donate once the condition is resolved or a specific waiting period has passed.
- Temporary Illnesses: If you are feeling unwell with a cold, flu, fever, or an active infection, you must wait until you are fully recovered before donating [1, 2].
- Tattoos and Piercings: A waiting period is required after getting a new tattoo or body piercing to ensure no bloodborne infections were contracted. The FDA-mandated deferral period is four months, regardless of where the procedure was done [1, 7].
- Pregnancy and Childbirth: Women are deferred from donating during pregnancy and for a period after childbirth, typically six weeks to one year [1, 2]. This is to protect the health of both the mother and baby.
- Travel Restrictions: Travel to areas with a high risk of certain diseases, such as malaria or Zika virus, can result in a temporary deferral period [1, 2].
- Recent Surgeries or Blood Transfusions: A waiting period is often required after recent surgery or receiving a blood transfusion [1, 2].
Medications and Lifestyle Factors
Certain medications can affect your eligibility, not just due to the drug itself but the condition it's treating. Some common examples include:
- Blood Thinners: Medications like warfarin (Coumadin), heparin, or similar anticoagulants prevent donation. The deferral period varies based on the specific drug [1, 6].
- Isotretinoin: Prescribed for acne, this medication requires a one-month waiting period after the last dose due to its risk of causing birth defects [1, 6].
- Certain Prostatitis and Hair Loss Medications: Drugs like finasteride (Propecia) or dutasteride (Avodart) require a waiting period due to the risk of birth defects [1, 6].
Lifestyle factors also play a role in eligibility:
- Injected Drugs: Anyone who has injected non-prescribed drugs is permanently disqualified [1, 2].
- Incarceration: Serving time in a correctional facility for more than 72 consecutive hours results in a 12-month deferral [1, 2].
Permanent vs. Temporary Plasma Donation Deferrals
| Reason for Deferral | Type | Conditions/Waiting Period |
|---|---|---|
| Infectious Disease (HIV, Hepatitis B/C) | Permanent | Confirmed positive test result. |
| Certain Chronic Cancers | Permanent | History of specific cancers (consult center for exceptions). |
| Tattoos and Piercings | Temporary | Must wait 4 months after the procedure. |
| Recent Illness (Flu, Fever) | Temporary | Must wait until fully recovered and symptom-free. |
| Pregnancy | Temporary | Deferred during and for several months post-pregnancy. |
| Injectable Drug Use | Permanent | Ever injected non-prescribed drugs. |
| Certain Medications (e.g., Blood Thinners) | Temporary | Varies depending on the specific medication. |
| Travel to High-Risk Areas | Temporary | Varies based on location and risk of certain diseases. |
Conclusion: Your Health and Honesty are Key
Eligibility criteria exist to ensure the safety of both the donor and the patient receiving the plasma products. While many are eligible to donate, understanding what type of people should not donate plasma prevents wasted time and potential health risks. If you are unsure about your eligibility due to a medical condition, medication, or recent life event, it is best to contact your local donation center. Always be honest and thorough during the screening process to ensure the integrity of your donation.
For more detailed information on donor eligibility, you can consult authoritative resources like DonatingPlasma.org.
