Impact of FDA’s HCT/P ZIKV Recommendations on Cord Blood Unit Eligibility and Utilization in a Large Public Cord Blood Bank

Abstract

Background Cord blood units (CBUs) that are ineligible for licensure due to incomplete compliance with FDA recommendations may be used for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation under urgent medical need and an Investigational Drug Application. The largest reason for CBU donor ineligibility is Zika virus (ZIKV) risk. The study’s objective was to analyze the impact of current FDA recommendations for ZIKA risk on a large public cord blood bank and propose updated recommendations. Methods We performed a retrospective analysis of Carolinas Cord Blood Bank (CCBB), an FDA licensed public CBB, using data from January 1, 2016 to November 21, 2023 and compared FDA recommendations for transfusion transmitted infections (TTI) for blood products and relevant communicable disease agents or diseases for human cell, tissue, or cellular or tissue-based products (HCT/Ps). Results CCBB: 9057 (84.3% licensed) CBUs were banked. 984/1682 (58.5%) of unlicensed CBUs had ZIKV risk. 22.0% of CBUs with ZIKV risk were from Hispanic parents, compared to 16.1% of all units. 31 of IND CBUs (11 due to ZIKV risk without reported ZIKV transmission) were safely infused. FDA Guidance: HCT/P ZIKV, HIV, and vCJD recommendations have not been updated since 2018 in contrast to FDA removal of ZIKV as a relevant TTI in 2021 and updating HIV and vCJD guidance related to TTI in 2023 and 2022, respectively. Discussion The FDA should consider new data to revise the HCT/P donor eligibility recommendations, which will increase the number of eligible HCT/P donors, and potentially improve access to therapies for a more diverse patient population.