Donor Selection

Abstract

Allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) is the treatment of choice for a variety of malignant and non-malignant disorders. The aim of HSCT is to replace the patient’s haematopoiesis with that taken from a donor, and a prerequisite is the identification of a suitable donor. It is an intense and demanding process and puts considerable strain on both recipients and donors. The choice of donor has an impact on the transplantation process from scheduling to outcome. There are several common donor issues whether the donor is related or unrelated including eligibility, confidentiality, informed consent and right to refuse consent.