Advertisement
Health Topics/Healthcare Basics/Organ Transplants & Health Care

How are potential tissue donors screened?

Intermountain Healthcare
Intermountain Healthcare
The United States Public Health Services has a strict process to keep out tissues that could be unsafe. Before tissue is removed, all potential donors are screened for high-risk behaviors and transmittable diseases. This screening includes:
  • A complete physical exam and review of the donor's medical records.
  • Medical and social histories. Someone who knew the donor well will answer questions similar to those one answers when donating blood.
If there are no risk factors, symptoms, or infections, the donor is tested for infectious diseases:
  • Blood samples from all tissue donors are tested for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and syphilis.
If any of these tests are positive, the donor's tissues will not be used.

Continue Learning about Organ Transplants & Health Care

What's the best way to control my weight after a transplant?
Columbia University Department of SurgeryColumbia University Department of Surgery
The best way to control your weight is with proper diet and exercise. After transplantation, diet ...
More Answers
What are allografts used for?
Intermountain HealthcareIntermountain Healthcare
Allografts are used in a variety of procedures that can save lives, repair limbs, relieve pain, ...
More Answers
What Is the Promise of Regenerative Medicine?
What Is the Promise of Regenerative Medicine?
What Are the Challenges to Growing Human Cells Outside the Body?
What Are the Challenges to Growing Human Cells Outside the Body?

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.