Monoclonal Gammopathies of Undetermined Significance and Abnormal Serum Protein Rates Prevelance in Blood Donors: For Improved Transfusion Safety

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Protein abnormalities include monoclonal gammopathies of undetermined significance (MGUS) and malignant lymphoplasmacytic tumors such as multiple myeloma (MM), Waldenström macroglobulinemia, and amyloid light-chain amyloidosis. MGUS prevalence increases with age, especially in individuals over 50. MGUS progresses to various lymphoplasmacytic diseases, including smoldering MM and MM. Almost all blood donors (BDs) are asymptomatic but some of them could present protein abnormalities. Our objective was to assess the prevalence and impact of protein abnormalities and monoclonal gammopathies (MGs) on transfusion safety among BDs in Morocco. Methods: Two hundred eighty-one serum samples were collected from BDs aged over 40 years old. Total serum protein measurement and protein electrophoresis were performed using the Architect ci8200 and Capillarys-2-Piercing automated systems, respectively. Immunofixation was conducted using hydrates. Results: Protein levels ranged between 59 and 87 g/L (average = 71.69 ± 4.96 g/L). Our results showed 195 (69.39%) normal profiles, 6 (2.13%) MGs, 14 (4.98%) heterogeneous restriction of γ-globulins, and 66 other abnormalities (23.48%) regarding the levels of albumin and proteins from alpha and beta fractions. Conclusion: Our preliminary results appeal to blood transfusion professionals regarding ethical considerations and transfusion safety. BDs with abnormal protein levels should benefit systematically from diagnostic tests and therapies.

Keywords

• blood donors
• monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance
• protein abnormalities
• transfusion safety