Which tests are necessary to assess eligibility for blood donation?

Question

Hello doctor,

I previously experienced some health issues that have improved. I am interested in finding out if I am eligible to donate blood, and would like to have my blood tested personally before donation. Can you provide details on the tests I should undergo?

I do not have all my previous blood work report results, but here is what I can recall: I was in good health until a while ago, and then I received my second COVID-19 vaccine booster shot. Later on, I noticed swelling at the edges of my nails. Following that, I consulted a general physician and had blood tests done, which showed deficiencies in Vitamin D, elevated levels of bad cholesterol, and high post-lunch sugar levels. Over the next few months:

I experienced elevated blood sugar levels, likely due to the COVID-19 vaccine and being overweight. However, I managed to lose a significant amount of weight through dieting, and my sugar levels returned to normal and have remained stable. Additionally, I had an allergic reaction to certain foods last year, as indicated by elevated Immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels. However, I have not experienced any allergies recently. Therefore, I would like to know all the necessary tests I should undergo to determine my eligibility for blood donation.

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

I hope you are doing well.

After reviewing your tests:

Fortunately, there is no evidence of HIV-1(human immunodeficiency virus type 1.) or anti HIV-2 antibodies, so you are non-reactive.
The presence of nicotine in your urine is at the cutoff concentration of 200 mg/dL. This is a positive outcome.
Elevated levels of IgE( immunoglobulin E.) can be associated with both allergic and non-allergic reactions. However, once these levels decrease, it is also considered favorable.
Your main issue with donation is primarily related to Vitamin B12 deficiency, with your level at 165 compared to the normal range of 211.

Therefore, the first step is to address this deficiency with B12 injections, initially administered six times every two to four days, followed by subsequent injections every few months to prevent recurrence. After correcting this deficiency, it is advisable to undergo a blood test to confirm your blood levels. Once this deficiency is corrected, you should be able to donate blood.

I hope this information will help you.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

You can give blood with high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or abnormal thyroid function. You cannot donate in cases of blood disease, bleeding disorders, or infection. In case of a recent tattoo or body piercing is preferable to postpone donation after at least six months. In your case, correcting vitamin B 12 level is only required.

I hope this information helps

Thank you.

Answer 3

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I will recommend you the following:

Blood typing.
Antibody screening.
Cross-matching.
Transmitted infections such as syphilis, Chagas disease, bacteria, SARS-COV2,(severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 ) or COVID-19(coronavirus disease 2019).
Viral diseases as HIV-1 ,HIV-2, HCV, HBV, HTLV-1 , HTLV2, Zika virus.