Haploidentical transplantation. Importance of histocompatibility testing and chimerism studies in allogeneic bone marrow/stem cell transplantation.

The transplantation of hematopoietic stem cells is sometimes the only treatment option for certain types of malignancies and hematological disorders. The best way to ensure a positive outcome from this type of procedure is to secure an identical human lymphocyte antigen-matched donor or use an autologous graft. This article reviews the indications for transplantation, the recipient and donor selection process, and posttransplant follow-up. The advantages of using haploidentical donors and the typing process also will be discussed.