- HIV-1 p24 antigen is a test to detect the p24 antigen.
- ALT detects an enzyme found in liver inflammation. It was instituted as a surrogate marker for non-A, non-B hepatitis infection. After the identification and implementation of testing for hepatitis C, this test was no longer recommended for donor testing in the U.S. It is still being conducted because plasma salvaged for further manufacturer (intravenous immune globulin, Factor 8), is often sold to European manufacturers. In Europe, ALT testing is still a donor test requirement.
- Anti-CMV is a test for antibody to cytomegalovirus. This test is performed selectively for transfusion of blood products to high risk recipients such as newborns,
certain transplant recipients and immunocompromised patients.
- The HCV and HIV RNA tests will be performed using polymerase chain reaction viral amplification methods. This will allow small numbers of virus to be amplified and detected. Implementation of this methodology will allow earlier detection of infection, known as "closing the window period of infection". The window period of infection is that time when a person is infected and potentially infectious, but current testing is unable to detect markers for the infection.