Donor matching
The most important factor in choosing a donor is HLA matching, the immune system’s "identity card".
01Short answer
02Simple explanation
Topic. donor matching.
Ask. Your team will explain your own situation.
Write down. Your questions.
Overview. The article “Stem cell transplant”.
03Scientific explanation
HLA typing: several key HLA genes are compared.
Other factors: donor age and sex, CMV status and blood group are also considered.
04What happens in the body?
Donor matching
HLA proteins sit on the surface of cells and help the immune system recognise "self". Matching is tested with a blood sample or cheek swab. Each brother or sister has about a one-in-four chance of being a full match. If there is no matched relative, international registries are searched; a half-matched (haploidentical) relative or cord blood can also be options.
In more detail
HLA typing: several key HLA genes are compared. Other factors: donor age and sex, CMV status and blood group are also considered.
The overview
This article goes deep into one subject. For the bigger picture, see “Stem cell transplant”.
05Donor matching: the steps
Four steps.
06Donor types
| Donor | Match | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Sibling | May be full | About a 1 in 4 chance |
| Registry donor | Full or close | The search takes time |
| Haploidentical | Half | Often found in the family |
07Key terms
- HLA
- Human leukocyte antigens.
- Haploidentical
- A half-matched donor.
08Key points
- Everyone’s plan is individual.
- Write down and bring your questions.
- Report new symptoms early.
- Do not change medicines yourself.
- For food, see “Handwashing: the simplest protection” and “Eggs and dairy: safe choices”.
- Overview: “Stem cell transplant”.
09Frequently asked questions
Must blood groups match?
Not necessarily; HLA matters more.
Is this the same for everyone?
No; the plan depends on the type of leukaemia and your situation.
Where is the overview?
In the article “Stem cell transplant”.
10Questions for your doctor
Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.
Must blood groups match?
Is this the same for everyone?
Where is the overview?
12Sources
- National Cancer Institute (NCI). Stem Cell Transplants in Cancer Treatment
- MedlinePlus. Bone Marrow Transplantation
- MedlinePlus. Histocompatibility antigen test
- National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP). Finding a donor
- American Cancer Society. Blood Transfusions
- American Cancer Society. Blood Transfusion Side Effects
- American Cancer Society. Low Platelet Count (Thrombocytopenia)
- American Cancer Society. Managing Anemia When You Have Cancer
- JAMA, 2023. Red Blood Cell Transfusion: 2023 AABB International Guidelines
- Annals of Internal Medicine, 2015. Platelet transfusion: a clinical practice guideline from the AABB