A bone marrow
biopsy
is the removal of a sample of bone marrow for testing.
The procedure is most commonly performed on the pelvic bone, but is sometimes done on the sternum.
In response to an abnormal blood test (one revealing too many or too few red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets), a bone marrow biopsy is performed for the:
-
Evaluation of unexplained
anemia
, low white cells count (leucopenia), low platelets count (thrombocytopenia)
- Diagnosis and staging of lymphoma (tumors of the lymphoid tissues) or solid tumors
-
Diagnosis, monitoring and evaluation of
leukemias
- Evaluation of iron metabolism and stores
- Evaluation of fever of undetermined origin
- Investigation of unexplained splenic enlargement (splenomegaly)
- Evaluation of suspected chromosomal disorders in neonates
- Confirmation that the bone marrow is normal in a potential bone marrow donor
- Bleeding disorders
- Infection of the skin overlying the area from which the biopsy is to be taken
- Infection in the bloodstream
-
Previous
radiation treatment
to the biopsy site
-
Severe
osteoporosis
Your physician will perform a physical exam and blood tests.
Anesthesia and possibly, a light sedation will be administered.
Local anesthesia is used for bone marrow biopsies.
Just before the procedure, you may be given a light sedative to help you relax. The area of your pelvis from which the biopsy will be taken is cleaned with an antiseptic, and numbed with a local anesthetic.
A hollow biopsy needle is inserted into the bone, and simultaneously advanced and twisted, to force a sample of bone marrow into the core of the needle. The doctor may need to use a fair amount of pressure and may need to rock the needle to get a sufficient sample. As the needle is withdrawn, the bone marrow sample is extracted. After the needle is removed, pressure and then a bandage are applied over the area that was punctured.
The bone marrow specimen will be examined by a pathologist.
The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes.
The injection of local anesthetic may sting or burn. You may notice a sensation of pressure and/or pain as the biopsy needle is rocked to obtain the sample.
The test may be performed in your doctor's office, and you can go home afterwards. A hospital stay is not necessary
You should be able to resume your normal activities after your bone marrow biopsy. If you have had a sedative, you'll be advised to avoid driving or operating equipment until the effects of the medication have worn off.
The pathologist will give your doctor information about the bone marrow, which will help your doctor make a diagnosis.
- Severe pain
- New onset of pain more than 24 hours after the procedure has been completed
- Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or discharge from the biopsy site
- Signs of infection, including fever and chills
Last reviewed November 2007 by
Mohei Abouzied, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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