The Eye Bank for Sight Restoration, Inc.

Part 1271.85 a (5) Syphilis testing should not be required for eye tissue. Dr. Marian Macsai et al documented that syphilis is not transmitted from donor to recipient by cornea1 transplant. Dr. Jay Pepose documented the ineffectiveness of using syphilis testing as a marker for other diseases. Additionally, unnecessary syphilis screening would result in a 7.5% increase in the cost of serology testing for eye banks. Since we already conduct a social interview with an individual who is familiar with the donor’s history, we effectively screen out unsuitable donors who may have a high-risk behavior for HIV. Therefore, syphilis testing should not be required for eye tissue.