Genetic evaluation of living kidney donor candidates: A review and recommendations for best practices

The growing accessibility and falling costs of genetic sequencing techniques has expanded the utilization of ge-netic testing in clinical practice. For living kidney donation, genetic evaluation has been increasingly used to identify genetic kidney disease in potential candidates, especially in those of younger ages. However, genetic testing on asymptomatic living kidney donors remains fraught with many challenges and uncertainties. Not all transplant practitioners are aware of the limitations of genetic testing, are comfortable with selecting testing methods, comprehending test results, or providing counsel, and many do not have access to a renal genetic counselor or a clinical geneticist. Although genetic testing can be a valuable tool in living kidney donor evalu-ation, its overall benefit in donor evaluation has not been demonstrated and it can also lead to confusion, inappropriate donor exclusion, or misleading reassurance. Until more published data become available, this practice resource should provide guidance for centers and transplant practitioners on the responsible use of ge-netic testing in the evaluation of living kidney donor candidates.

Automated summary

The accessibility and cost reduction of genetic sequencing techniques have led to an expanded utilization of genetic testing in clinical practice. In the context of living kidney donation, genetic evaluation is increasingly used to identify genetic kidney disease in potential candidates, particularly younger individuals. However, there are numerous challenges and uncertainties associated with genetic testing for asymptomatic living kidney donors. Not all transplant practitioners are aware of the limitations of genetic testing or have access to specialized genetic counseling or expertise in renal genetics.