1. After reading the information and signing the consent a buccal swab sample is collected 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 from the buccal(cheek) sample.

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 goes to the hospital on the last day of Neupogen njections for the outpatient PBSC collection and goes home soon after the procedure.

OR…

The donor usually enters the hospital the morning of the marrow harvest procedure and may go home the same day or the next day.

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 (in liquid solution) 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 d esired. Timing may be determined by the protocol of the patient’s transplant center and/or Federal regulations.