An Overview of HLA Typing for Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

Selection of a related or unrelated haematopoietic stem cell donor for a patient requires accurate matching of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes in order to maximise the beneficial effects of the transplant. There are a number of different approaches that can be made in order to achieve HLA type depending on the number of samples being processed, the level of resolution to be achieved, and the cost of providing the various tests. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages and in most laboratories, a combination of methods may be used.