Who Can Become a Hematopoietic Stem Cell Donor? What Requirements Must a Donor Meet?

Overview: Not everyone can become a stem cell donor. Before donation, potential donors undergo a careful medical assessment to protect both the donor and the patient. Age, general health, infectious disease risk, major organ function and HLA compatibility are among the factors considered.

Why are donor eligibility requirements necessary?

Donated stem cells will contribute to rebuilding the patient's blood-forming and immune systems. The donor's health therefore affects not only the safety of collection but also whether the collected cells are suitable for transplantation. The goal is to identify an appropriate donor while keeping donation safe for the donor.

What basic requirements are assessed?

Requirements may vary between transplant centers and donor sources. In general, doctors consider age, overall physical condition, heart and lung function, liver and kidney function, blood and immune-system health, and conditions that could make donation unsafe. Serious infections, major heart, lung, liver or kidney disease, blood disorders and some inherited conditions may require further assessment or may affect eligibility.

Must the donor be a relative?

No. Related donors may include siblings, parents, children and other relatives. Patients without a suitable related donor may also be able to receive cells from an HLA-compatible unrelated donor identified through a donor registry.

Is good health the only requirement?

No. Health is one part of donor selection. HLA compatibility, infection and disease risks, the patient's disease, transplant timing and overall transplant risk are also considered. A donor who is suitable for one patient may not necessarily be the best choice for another.