The designated clinician should decide the policy in relation to the provision of an autologous service. Autologous donors should be tested for the same microbiological markers as for an allogeneic living donor. Where the tissue is to be stored, microbiological testing must include bacteriological culture, where the tissue does not undergo a validated terminal antimicrobial treatment (for allogeneic tissues see Chapter 21). The medical history may be less relevant than for allogeneic donation of tissues. The rationale for any exceptions must be documented. Testing requirements for allogeneic tissues are detailed in Chapter 21.
Separate storage must be used to avoid inappropriate issue. Autologous tissue must be securely segregated from allogeneic tissue at all stages from collection to issue. Autologous donations must not be issued for allogeneic use.
A system must be in place to enable the hospital to recognise that the tissue is autologous. The autologous tissue must be labelled with the patient’s name, hospital number and date of birth.