The World Federation of Hemophilia has received several enquiries about a recent problem which has arisen in the United Kingdom. As a physician working in the UK, I have been very closely involved in this matter and am writing this to set out the facts.
A volunteer donor in the UK who gave blood in 1996 and 1997 has recently died of variant CJD (vCJD). The plasma from this donor was used by Bio-Products Laboratory (BPL) in the manufacture of several batches of various factor VIII and IX concentrates, including 8Y, Replenate and Replenine. These products were used in the UK in 1997 and 1998. All patients who were treated with the implicated batches have already been traced, and will be notified of this problem which has arisen. The Haemophilia Society in the UK has also issued a statement, which has been circulated to members.
Of course, I recognise that this news may generate some anxiety amongst the haemophilia community, particularly in the UK. However, it must be emphasised that there is no evidence that vCJD is transmitted by blood products and no person with haemophilia in the world has ever been reported to have developed either the classical or variant form of CJD.
Furthermore, BPL has assured me that none of the implicated batches have been exported from the UK for use abroad. Although BPL continues to export a number of blood products (including coagulation factor concentrates), it must be appreciated that these are now manufactured with plasma imported from North America.
Dr. P.L.F. Giangrande
Vice President Medical
World Federation of Hemophilia
February 1, 2001
This is intended to provide information only. The World Federation of Hemophilia does not engage in the practice of medicine and under no circumstances recommends particular treatment for specific individuals. In the case of vCJD and individual medical inquiries, the WFH suggests that further details should be sought from personal doctors or hemophilia centre staff. |
