Radiation therapy - Tissue - deceased donors

Essential information

Obligatory

Must not donate if:

  1. For malignancy other than basal cell carcinoma.
  2. For other treatments, refer to a Designated Clinical Support Officer.
  3. Tissue to be collected has been irradiated.
Discretionary
  1. Eyes:
    If related to malignancy and the eyes were not included in the field of irradiation, see Malignancy.
  2. If fully recovered and is acceptable according to Immunosuppression and immunodeficiency advice, accept.
  3. If for basal cell carcinoma or ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast, all treatment has been completed, the donor has been discharged from follow up and is eligible under the Malignancy guideline, accept.

Supporting information

See if relevant
Additional information

Radiation therapy is sometimes used for non-malignant conditions, particularly for some skin conditions. It is often used as a substitute for other treatments that work by suppressing the immune system such as high dose steroids and cytotoxic drugs. More information is likely to be required before a decision can be made as to if an individual can donate. This why a referral to a Designated Clinical Support Officer is required.

Reason for change:
Update of links due to the renaming of the ‘Immunosuppression' entry as ‘Immunosuppression and immunodeficiency’.
Version details:

TD-DSG Edition 203 Release 67 (6 October 2026)