The ISBT code of Ethics and the altruistic donor

Abstract The ISBT code of Ethics was first published in 1980 and aimed to define the principles and rules to be observed in the field of transfusion. Subsequently updated in 2000 it is acknowledged as a core document for the Society. The Code focusses on the importance of voluntary non-remunerated blood donation. This concept continues to be challenged particularly in the area of collection of plasma for fractionation. The background to the development of the Code is reviewed and assessed in the context of recent developments with the aim of determining whether a further revision of the Code is now needed.