If someone in my family needs cord blood, when would they use a sample stored privately in a family bank and when would they use a sample from a public bank?
Studies show that cord blood provides better treatment outcomes than bone marrow for many diseases. Many transplant physicians consider cord blood stem cell transplant to be the treatment of choice for their patients. Most transplant doctors prefer to use a suitable sample from a family member. It is easily accessible and treatment can be given quickly before the patient becomes sicker. In addition, studies show that there is less rejection, fewer complications and better survival rates when using a genetically-related sample. Doctors will look at public banks for samples when they cannot find a suitable sample within the family. Transplant physicians will consult with patients when making their decision about treatment options.
Related Questions
- If someone in my family needed a transplant, when would cord blood stored in a private bank by my family be used versus unrelated cord blood donated to a public bank?
- If someone in my family needs cord blood, when would they use a sample stored privately in a family bank and when would they use a sample from a public bank?
- Why start a public/private bank?
