The blood within the umbilical cord and placenta, usually thrown away after
birth, is a rich source of blood stem cells. These special cells - also
found in bone marrow - produce all the blood cells in the body and can often
be used for transplantation.
If you currently have a child with a transplant-treatable condition, a cord
blood stem cell transplant may provide hope for a cure, especially since
it may not require complete tissue typing (HLA) compatibility.
Some blood disorders, such as sickle cell anemia, thalassemia, or aplastic
anemia, can be treated with a transplant. Certain malignancies, such as
leukemia, may respond to transplantation with cord blood, as may some metabolic
storage disorders and some genetic immunodeficiencies. If you have questions,
call us or talk to your child's specialist.
Each cord blood unit is processed, tested, preserved in vapor phase liquid
nitrogen and stored in our laboratory.
Collection is a team effort. We work closely with each family and its health
care provider through every step of the process.
Revised:
April 24, 2020 3:20 PM
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