Removal of cytomegalovirus DNA from donor blood by filtration.

Blood from five donors, previously shown to be positive for cytomegalovirus (CMV) DNA following polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification, was filtered through commercially available leucocyte filters. Analysis of pre- and post-filtration samples by PCR with ethidium bromide staining has shown that filtration was successful in removing CMV DNA from all samples. This is evidence that leucocyte filtration of red cell concentrates may greatly decrease the risk of CMV disease following transfusion to susceptible patients.