Presence of Donor-Derived DNA in Semen Samples From Cancer Survivors Who Underwent Donor Stem Cell Transplant

Detection of Donor-Derived DNA in Semen Samples Among Recipients of Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem-Cell Transplants

RATIONALE: Studying samples of semen from cancer survivors in the laboratory may help doctors learn more about changes that occur in DNA and identify biomarkers related to cancer.

PURPOSE: This phase I research study is looking at the presence of donor-derived DNA in semen samples form cancer survivors who underwent donor stem cell transplant.

OBJECTIVES:

• To examine semen samples from male survivors of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for the presence of donor-derived DNA.

OUTLINE: Semen samples are collected and assessed by flow cytometry and PCR. DNA samples are compared to previously analyzed DNA extracted from survivor and donor. Samples are also analyzed for sperm concentration, motility, morphology, and viability.

DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS:

• Disease in remission
• More than 365 days since prior allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation with history of full donor engraftment
• Stable complete donor chimerism

PATIENT CHARACTERISTICS:

• Able to consent and willing to provide a semen sample
• Survivors who present for long-term follow-up appointments in the adult and pediatric stem cell transplant clinic at Vanderbilt University Medical Center
• No known history of infertility or azospermia

PRIOR CONCURRENT THERAPY:

• See Disease Characteristics
• No history of testicular irradiation ≥ 200 cGy