Stem cells

Stem cells are the cells from which all blood cells develop in the bone marrow. Stem cells may be obtained either from bone marrow blood from the pelvic bone (bone marrow transplantation) or from blood (peripheral stem cell transplantation).

Depending on the stem cell source, a distinction is made between autologous stem cell transplantation (SCT; stem cells are obtained from the patients themselves) and allogenic SCT (stem cells are obtained from histocompatible donors, who may be relatives or persons unrelated to the patient). If unrelated donors are needed the histological characteristics of the patient are compared to those of potential donors registered at national and international donor centres.

ÖBIG has been in charge of stem cell donation issues since 1999. The initial activities in this field included a detailed analysis of the present state of organisational structures, data transfer and financing of stem cell donation. On this basis, proposals for a reorganisation of stem cell matters were made.

In 2005 a commission at the Ministry of Health, which dealt with the advancement of stem cell donations, was dissolved and stem cell donation and transplantation matters were integrated in the Transplantation Advisory Council already existing at ÖBIG.

An information leaflet with all facts concerning search procedures for compatible donors was prepared for patients who need unrelated stem cell donors. GÖG/ÖBIG also keeps lists of recognised Austrian donor centres and stem cell transplantation centres.

For recent developments and data on organ, tissue and stem cell donation and transplantation please consult the latest annual report (Transplant-Jahresbericht 2011).

Contact: Birgit Priebe