Laboratory detection of donors implicated in transfusion-transmitted malaria

Transfusion-transmitted malaria (TTM) is a rare but serious risk in non-endemic regions. Countries like the United States, Canada, and Europe use donor screening and deferral policies to reduce this risk, but cases still occur, often from asymptomatic donors with past exposure.  Detection methods such as microscopy and antibody tests have limited sensitivity, especially for low parasite levels. In contrast, molecular tests like PCR offer higher sensitivity and better detection of infections. This review focuses on TTM cases since 2010 and evaluates how effectively current antibody and molecular methods identify infected donors, highlighting the need for improved screening approaches.