Why Donor DNA Testing Is Essential for Bone Marrow Transplants

DNA testing of a bone marrow donor is mandatory to ensure compatibility with the recipient. The test evaluates:

• Tissue compatibility (HLA matching): Close matching reduces the risk of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) and rejection.
• Genetic disease screening: Identifies hereditary conditions the donor might carry that could affect the recipient post-transplant.

High-resolution HLA matching improves engraftment success, lowers complication rates, and supports long-term recipient health. Without DNA testing, transplant outcomes are significantly less predictable and more dangerous.