FAQ's

WHO CAN BE AN UNRELATED MARROW DONOR?

Potential unrelated volunteer donors must be between 18 years old and 60 years old, and meet the medical guidelines.

WHAT IS HLA?

HLA (Human Leukocyte Antigens) are markers on the surface of white blood cells. HLA forms the basis for recognizing and rejecting foreign tissues. Matching marrow recipients and their donors for their HLA type has been shown to greatly increase the likelihood of a successful transplant.

DOES RACE OR ETHNICITY AFFECT MATCHING?

Racial and ethnic heritage are very important factors. Because tissue types are inherited, patients are most likely to match someone of their own race or ethnicity. Today, there simply aren't enough registered donors of diverse racial and ethnic heritage.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN A PERSON AGREES TO BE A POTENTIAL MARROW DONOR?

First, HLA typing will be performed on buccal swabs containing cheek cells. This information is then input into a nationally recognized registry database and becomes part of their confidential computerized file. If a patient needs a marrow transplant from an unrelated donor, the Registry conducts a computerized search to identify donors with the same HLA type as the patient. The registry will then contact the potential donor to find out if they are interested. Arrangements are then made to obtain additional blood samples.

IF IT'S A MATCH, WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

If buccal swab tests determine that the unrelated donor is compatible, he/she is asked to make a final commitment. Prior to the donor making his decision, the donor is provided an extensive explanation of the marrow donation procedure and a complete physical examination is performed to ensure that the prospective donor is medically eligible to donate. Only after the donor has made a final decision to donate and has passed the physical exam are arrangements made for the actual collection.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR A MARROW DONOR TO RESUME NORMAL ACTIVITIES?

Most donors return to their normal activities, including work, within a day or two.

WHO COVERS THE COSTS?

There is no cost to the donor. Medical examinations and hospital expenses are paid by the recipient.

WILL DONATING MARROW MAKE ME WEAK?

The amount of marrow donated will not weaken your own body or immune system. The average amount of marrow and blood donated is about one quart, less if the patient is a baby or child. This is only a fraction of your total marrow. Most donors are back to their usual routine in a few days, and your marrow naturally replaces itself within four to six weeks.

WHAT IS THE RISK TO THE TRANSPLANT RECIPIENT?

While transplantation is a life-saving therapy, not all recipients survive. Sometimes a patient's body cannot withstand the pre-transplant chemotherapy and radiation. Sometimes health complications occur after the transplant.