A glance at the geographical distribution of histocompatibility laboratories

Histocompatibility laboratories (HLs) provide essential histocompatibility and immunogenetics (H&I) testing in support of organ and stem cell transplantation, diagnosis of diseases and risk assessment of drug-induced adverse reactions associated with HLA variants, and beyond. Their geographical distribution and the accreditation organizations that provide regulatory oversight have never been profiled. To understand the characteristics of HLs and their global distribution, a taskforce was established by the American Society for Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics (ASHI) Accreditation Review Board (ARB) to gather this data. Our study indicates there are at least 593 HLs routinely providing testing services across 58 countries and 6 continents, with two major organizations, ASHI and EFI, providing accreditation. The data presented here indicates that the distribution of HLs highly depends on the size and economic development of the countries and geographical areas where they are located. This report highlights the benefits of standardization and potential for cooperation among HLs and professional histocompatibility and immunogenetics societies and organizations worldwide.