1. After reading the information and signing the consent a blood sample is
drawn for HLA typing. The HLA type is reported as a series of numbers, e.g.
A1 A11 B18 B35 DR7 DR13. HLA stands for “Human Leukocyte Antigen” and
is determined by typing white blood cells.
2. The test results are recorded in the Registry computer files and compared to
patients’ HLA types. If your HLA type matches a patient’s HLA type you will
be contacted by mail and/or phone to obtain your consent to proceed to the
next level of testing. THERE IS NO FEE! This step and all subsequent steps
are the financial responsibility of the patient.
3. The final step requires that a sample of your blood be sent to the patient’s
transplant center where your blood and the patient’s are retested to confirm
the reported types. DNA studies of your cells are done to determine true
compatibility.
4. If step three shows compatibility, the potential donor is notified and
scheduled for counseling by a marrow harvest team. The donor is asked to
bring a family member or support person along. Marrow harvest procedures
are explained in detail and risks and/or complications which could occur
are discussed.
5. After the consultation if the donor agrees to proceed he/she is given a
complete physical examination to insure and protect the health of the donor
as well as the patient.
6. The donor usually enters the hospital the morning of the bone marrow
harvest procedure and may go home the same day or the next day OR The
donor goes to the hospital on the last day of Neupogen injections for the
outpatient PBSC collection and goes home soon after the procedure.
7. Marrow or stem cells are collected in sealed plastic bags (similar to blood
collection bags) and are placed in a special container. The container is hand
carried by a designated courier to the patient’s transplant center. It is never
shipped!
8. Marrow or stem cells (which are liquid) are given to the patient by IV.
If the transplant is successful, the new marrow begins to produce normal
healthy blood cells within two to four weeks. The patient has received
the chance-of-a-lifetime!
9. The donor’s marrow is replaced by the body within three to four weeks.
10. The patient or his/her medical insurance is responsible for all costs
associated with the harvest. The donor cannot be paid but can be reimbursed
for any expenses incurred.
Direct contact between the donor and the recipient is deferred for one year and must be
mutually desired.Timing may be determined by the protocol of the patient’s transplant
center and/or Federal regulations.
