Chimerism Test

Also known as: engraftment analysis

What is a chimerism test?

A chimerism test is a genetic blood test that is performed after a patient receives a hematopoietic stem cell transplant. This test essentially determines how well the patient is accepting the transplant by analyzing the genetic viability of the donor’s and patient’s genetic material. If a patient is having problems related to the stem cell transplant, the results of the chimerism test can yield clues to the problem and potentially help health care providers find the solution.

What happens during the test?

Blood draws are taken from the donor of the stem cells, the recipient and the stem cell transplant samples. The DNA of these three samples is isolated and analyzed to determine how well they are matching up and how well the patient is accepting the transplant.

Is any special preparation needed?

No special preparation is needed for the chimerism test.

What are the risk factors?

Bleeding, bruising, infection and pain are mild side effects or risk factors of the chimerism test.

Reviewed by: Dr. Kamar Godder

This page was last updated on: September 16, 2025 12:49 PM