donatore

Donatore is an Italian noun meaning a person who gives something to others. In medical contexts it refers to individuals who donate organs, blood, tissues, or cells for transplantation, research, or treatment, typically with the donor's informed consent and in accordance with national or local regulations.

Etymology: the term derives from Latin donator, from donare “to give.” In Italian, donatore has a feminine form, donatrice, and similar terms exist in other languages for the corresponding concept of a giver or donor.

Common types of donatori include blood donors and organ donors. A living donor gives while alive, often a kidney or part of the liver; a deceased donor donates after death. Donors can provide organs, tissues (such as corneas), bone, or hematopoietic cells for transplantation or research. Donation can be voluntary or organized through national or regional programs, with careful medical and ethical oversight.

Consent and regulation: Donor consent is central to donation systems. Some countries use opt-in explicit consent; others use opt-out presumed consent. In many jurisdictions, individuals register as donors, and families may be consulted or authorized to permit donation after death. Living donors undergo medical and psychological screening to assess risks and ensure informed decision-making, with ongoing follow-up to monitor health.

Allocation and impact: Donor organs and tissues are allocated through national networks based on medical urgency, tissue compatibility, and waiting time. Donation can save lives and improve quality of life, but raises ethical considerations about coercion, equity, and compensation. Cultural, religious, and personal beliefs also influence donor decisions.