Quality assurance and standards in hematopoietic progenitor processing

Abstract

Bone marrow transplantation is an increasingly important therapeutic procedure. As more laboratories have become involved in the processing of hematopoietic progenitor cells from marrow or blood, it has been recognized that standards are required for hematopoietic progenitor processing, storage, and handling. Quality assurance is the process of monitoring whether laboratory procedures, equipment, and personnel fulfill their expected functions, and the aim of quality assurance is to ensure compliance with standards. Some standards for hematopoietic progenitor processing have recently been issued by professional organizations. Although these standards are not comprehensive, where applicable they should be met or exceeded. In the absence of published standards, principles of good laboratory practice should guide quality assurance programs. This article presents concepts of quality assurance in hematopoietic progenitor processing, based on standard laboratory practice and published standards.