Genealogy DNA testing and stem cell transplants

[JoMac53]

I've just leaned about recipients' dna changing to donor's dna after stem cell transplants. So, if you're interested in dna testing for genealogical reasons, get tested before you have a transplant.

https://www.watersheddna.com/blog-and-news/stemcelltransplantgedmatch

But this also brings up a questions and ideas. I've read about mutations showing up, or disappearing, after transplant. This could be the reason, of course. And also, in genealogy, they get matches by comparing your dna results to someone else's, including mutations. I wonder if this has anything to do with finding 'matches' for transplants.

It's late and this is too complicated of a topic for me right now, but just wanted to throw this out there to see if anyone else is interested.

My own journey to transplant is on hold while time tics by waiting for medicare coverage. Does make me rethink my non-belief in socialized medicine a bit.

[lisa3112]

Hi,
Interesting! Didnt even think about genealogy testing after a stem cell transplant. As for mutations disappearing.. I had runx1 mutation prior to transplant, and I dont have it now.
Really sucks that you have to wait for Medicare coverage. Good luck and thanks for sharing. Lisa

[GoodDay5150]

I know that the tests that use saliva will not show accurate results bcse of the white blood cells in your saliva. I never did a genealogy test b4 my transplant, but my brother may do one sometime. I would be more curious abt that of my donor, who I have never communicated with. I am not trained in medicine but it would make sense that mutations would go away after a transplant. I do not envy those w/ medicare issues who need treatment. My current insurance carrier as well as the HMO I had when I had my transplant are pretty easy to work with.

Mario