Cord blood is considered a strong source of stem cells. Stem cells are building blocks of the body's blood and immune systems. This enables them to treat, repair and cure cells damaged by leukemia and other diseases.
History
The first successful cord blood stem cell treatment was completed in 1988. The procedure became accessible to the general public in 1995. In 1998, the FDA established standards for cord blood banking.
Significance
As of June 2009, there are close to eighty diseases considered treatable by stem cells. Cord blood is considered a potential treatment for leukemia patients, especially if no acceptable source of bone marrow transplant is available.
Time Frame
Cord blood collection is available immediately following birth. Cord blood is then cryogenically stored in a private, or public, bank until needed for transplant. It is believed that stem cells can be stored indefinitely until requested for treatment.
Function
In a standard non-collecting birth the umbilical cord is disposed of as medical waste. Cord blood collection involves the removal of blood, and resulting stem cells, from the umbilical cord. This is a painless procedure where the umbilical cord is cut, clamped and cord blood is drawn directly from the umbilical cord.
Considerations
There is no guarantee that the cord blood will be a match or that treatment for leukemia will be successful.
Tags: stem cells, umbilical cord, cord blood, blood collection, blood considered, Cord blood