Diseases may generally be grouped into the following categories:
Caused by organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Examples: pneumonia, influenza, tuberculosis.
Inflammatory / immune/ autoimmune diseases
The immune system becomes overactive or misdirected and damages the body’s own tissues or over-reacts to allergens, for example. Examples: rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, inflammatory bowel disease, allergies.
Conditions involving abnormal cell growth — both benign and malignant. Examples: cancers/solid tumors, leukemias, lymphomas.
Metabolic / endocrine diseases
Problems with biochemical processes or hormone regulation. Examples: diabetes, thyroid disorders, metabolic syndrome.
These are most commonly available as diagnostic
remnants.Degenerative diseases
Progressive deterioration of tissues or organs, often age‑related. Examples: osteoarthritis, Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease,
cardiovascularThese are most commonly available as diagnostic
remnants or as
deceased donor specimens.
Nutritional diseases
Caused by deficiencies, excesses, or imbalances in diet. Examples: scurvy, anemia from iron deficiency, obesity.
These are most commonly available as diagnostic
remnants. Skin and adipose tissue may also be available from surgical donors with obesity.
Toxic / environmental diseases
Triggered by exposure to harmful substances or environmental conditions. Examples: lead poisoning, asbestosis, heat stroke.
These are most commonly available as diagnostic
remnants.
Trauma‑related diseases
Resulting from physical injury. Examples: fractures, concussions, burns.
These are most commonly available as diagnostic
remnants.
Congenital diseases
Present at birth, whether genetic or due to developmental issues. Examples: congenital heart defects, spina bifida.
These are most commonly available as diagnostic
remnants.
Pediatric specimens are however much less frequently available, and at smaller volumes, than adult donor specimens.
A small number of
organ transplant donor organs (non-transplantable) may also be available.
Psychiatric / behavioral health disorders
Conditions affecting mood, cognition, or behavior. Examples: depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia.
These are most commonly available as diagnostic
remnants.
Iatrogenic diseases
Caused unintentionally by medical treatment or procedures. Examples: medication side effects, surgical complications.
These are most commonly available as diagnostic
remnants.
Genetic / hereditary diseases
Caused by inherited or spontaneous gene mutations. Examples: cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, Huntington’s disease.
These are less frequently available but are most likely to be available as diagnostic
remnants, or as prospective
blood/biofluid collections.
