Having a child to save a sibling: reassessing risks and benefits of creating stem cell donors

Abstract

This manuscript assesses the risks, benefits, and ethical concerns regarding the use of assisted reproductive techniques (ART) to create a new donor for stem cell transplantation. We address ethical literature, the medical and psychosocial impact on patient, donor, family, and medical caregivers, and the appropriate decision-making process. We conclude that the use of ART to create a stem cell donor can be ethically acceptable. The decision to conceive a donor has medical and psychosocial implications. The family is the appropriate decision-maker and must consider risks and benefits to all parties with input from medical caregivers.