The degradation of some clotting factors by methylene blue may make it unattractive as replacement therapy for patients with some bleeding disorders. The following represents the points of general agreement observed by the Council. Due to the effectiveness of the screening methods currently in place in Canada the levels of contamination with known viruses that cause serious effects is very low. In general viral inactivation techniques may introduce new risks to blood components, whereas enhanced screening strategies do not. Genome amplification testing for hepatitis C provides additional safety for donated whole blood.
Solvent detergent treated plasma has safety benefits as well as safety concerns.
While the safety concern over introducing pooling for the larger population is significant, there is some potential safety and therapeutic benefit for some indications where the risk from pooling is less significant. The logistical issues and time frames for increasing plasmapheresis programs should also be considered. In light of the potential benefits of methylene blue treatment, the CBS, Hema Quebec, and BBR should continue to monitor the developments, in particular the results of the clinical trials. Go to transcripts .