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Netherlands: Donor system

In the Netherlands, the stem cell donor registry is run by Matchis and blood donation by Sanquin.

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

01Short answer

When a transplant is needed, brothers and sisters are tested first. If there is no suitable donor in the family, Matchis searches the Dutch registry and the worldwide network of registries (WMDA). Donation is voluntary and unpaid, and the identities of donor and patient are protected. Your transplant team will explain the search and how long it may take.

02Simple explanation

Matchis: stem cell registry.

Sanquin: blood donation.

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 — Netherlands: Donor system

Blood donation

Blood and plasma are given at Sanquin centres.

Donor centre
Figure 3.Donor centre — Netherlands: 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 and plasma are given at Sanquin centres.

07Key terms

Stamceldonor
Stem cell donor.
HLA-typering
Tissue typing.
Matchis
Donor centre.
Bloeddonor
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 Matchis website.

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. Matchis. Dutch stem cell donor centre (in Dutch)
  2. Sanquin. Official website
  3. World Marrow Donor Association (WMDA). Official website
  4. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Stem Cell and Bone Marrow Transplants for Cancer
  5. GOV.UK (FCDO). Netherlands travel advice: getting help
  6. International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC/WHO). Global Cancer Observatory: United Kingdom fact sheet
  7. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Leukemia — Patient Version
  8. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Bone marrow aspiration
  9. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Questions to Ask Your Doctor about Your Diagnosis
  10. American Cancer Society. Leukemia
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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