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USA: Donor system

In the USA, the main registry of unrelated stem cell donors is NMDP (formerly “Be The Match”), linked to registries worldwide.

Last updated: ~1 min read
On a dark navy background, a constellation of lights.
Figure 1.Network — USA: Donor system

01Short answer

When a transplant is needed, brothers and sisters are tested for HLA first. If there is no matching relative, the transplant centre searches millions of volunteer donors and cord blood units through NMDP. The search also covers international registries. The chance of a fully matched donor depends on ethnic background; alternatives then include a half-matched (haploidentical) relative or cord blood. NMDP offers free support for patients and families.

02Simple explanation

Siblings: the first check.

NMDP: the national registry.

Alternatives: haplo and cord blood.

03Scientific explanation

Diversity: patients from minority backgrounds may find it harder to get a full match.

Data: CIBMTR collects transplant outcomes and publishes centre results.

04What happens in the body?

Registry

Donors can join at ages 18 to 40; the age limit may change.

Cheek swab

Joining is done with a cheek swab at home.

On a dark navy background, a swab envelope.
Figure 2.Kit — USA: Donor system

Cord blood

Frozen units can be available quickly.

On a dark navy background, a cryo canister.
Figure 3.Cord blood — USA: Donor system

05Finding a donor

Four steps.

Family — Sibling testing.1FamilySibling testing.
Registry — NMDP search.2RegistryNMDP search.
Alternative — Haplo or cord.3AlternativeHaplo or cord.
Time — Planning.4TimePlanning.
Donor foundA plan is built.
SupportThe family is not alone.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
RegistryDonors can join at ages 18 to 40; the age limit may change.
Cheek swabJoining is done with a cheek swab at home.
Cord bloodFrozen units can be available quickly.

07Key terms

HLA
Tissue matching markers.
Haploidentical
A half-matched related donor.
Cord blood
Blood from the umbilical cord.
Search coordinator
The person who runs the search.

08Key points

  • Start sibling testing early.
  • Get to know the search coordinator.
  • Ask about alternative donors.
  • Contact NMDP patient support.
  • Invite friends to join the registry.

09Frequently asked questions

How long does the search take?

From a few weeks to months; starting early matters.

Are donors paid?

No, donors in the USA are volunteers.

Can the donor be from abroad?

Yes, donors can also come from international registries.

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. How long does the search take?

  2. Are donors paid?

  3. Can the donor be from abroad?

My questions

12Sources

  1. NMDP. Official website
  2. NMDP. For patients
  3. World Marrow Donor Association (WMDA). Official website
  4. CIBMTR. Official website
  5. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Stem Cell and Bone Marrow Transplants for Cancer
  6. GOV.UK. Overseas NHS visitors: implementing the charging regulations
  7. GOV.UK (Department of Health and Social Care). The NHS Constitution for England
  8. NHS. What is PALS (Patient Advice and Liaison Service)?
  9. Food Standards Agency. Official website
  10. Drinking Water Inspectorate. Official website
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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