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Germany: Donor system

In Germany, the search for stem cell donors is coordinated by the central registry ZKRD; donor files are held by several organisations such as DKMS.

Last updated: ~1 min read
On a dark navy background, a globe of lights.
Figure 1.World registry — Germany: Donor system

01Short answer

Germany has one of the largest numbers of registered stem cell donors in the world. When a transplant is needed, brothers and sisters are tested first; if there is no suitable family donor, the ZKRD searches German and worldwide registries. Donation is voluntary and unpaid, and identities are protected.

02Simple explanation

ZKRD: central registry.

DKMS: donor file.

WMDA: worldwide network.

03Scientific explanation

HLA: matching is assessed by tissue type (HLA).

Alternative donors: partly matched relatives and cord blood may also be used.

04What happens in the body?

World registry

A matching donor can come from any country.

Matching

HLA types are compared.

On a dark navy background, two pieces joining.
Figure 2.Matching — Germany: Donor system

Blood donation

Blood is given at donor centres and mobile buses.

On a dark navy background, a calm centre.
Figure 3.Donor centre — Germany: Donor system

05Finding a donor

Four steps.

Family — Siblings are tested.1FamilySiblings are tested.
Registry — The search.2RegistryThe search.
Match — Found.3MatchFound.
Thanks — Anonymous.4ThanksAnonymous.
HopeThe search has begun.
ClarityThe stages are known.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
World registryA matching donor can come from any country.
MatchingHLA types are compared.
Blood donationBlood is given at donor centres and mobile buses.

07Key terms

Stammzellspender
Stem cell donor.
HLA-Typisierung
Tissue typing.
ZKRD
Central registry.
Blutspender
Blood donor.

08Key points

  • Ask about family testing.
  • Ask about timing.
  • Be patient.
  • People close to you can become donors.
  • Anonymous thanks to a donor is possible.

09Frequently asked questions

Who can become a donor?

Age and health requirements are on the websites of DKMS and other donor files.

Can I meet my donor?

Rules are strict; sometimes anonymous contact is possible after a set time.

How long does the search take?

From weeks to months; your team will explain.

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.

  1. Who can become a donor?

  2. Can I meet my donor?

  3. How long does the search take?

My questions

12Sources

  1. ZKRD (German National Bone Marrow Donor Registry). Official website
  2. DKMS. Official website
  3. World Marrow Donor Association (WMDA). Official website
  4. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Stem Cell and Bone Marrow Transplants for Cancer
  5. NMDP. For patients
  6. CIBMTR. Official website
  7. HealthCare.gov. Out-of-pocket maximum/limit
  8. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). No Surprises: understand your rights against surprise medical bills
  9. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Hospital price transparency
  10. LEP.gov (U.S. Government). Language access for people with limited English proficiency
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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