answersLogoWhite

0

Definition

A bone marrow biopsy is the removal of soft tissue from inside bone. Bone marrow grows inside some of the larger bones in the body. It produces platelets and red and white blood cells.

Alternative Names

Biopsy - bone marrow

How the test is performed

The bone marrow biopsy may be done in the health care provider's office or in a hospital. The sample is usually taken from the hip bone. The skin is cleansed, and a local anesthetic is injected to numb the skin.

The biopsy needle is then inserted into the bone. The center of the needle is removed and the needle is moved deeper into the bone. This creates a tiny sample, or core, of bone marrow within the needle. The needle is then removed, along with the bone marrow sample. Pressure is applied to the biopsy site to stop bleeding, and a bandage is applied.

An aspirate may also be performed, usually before the biopsy is taken. After the skin is numbed, the aspirate needle is inserted into the bone, and a syringe is used to withdraw the liquid bone marrow. If this is done, the needle will be removed and either repositioned, or another needle may be used for the biopsy.

How to prepare for the test

Tell the health care provider:

  • If you are allergic to any medications
  • What medications you are taking
  • If you have bleeding problems
  • If you are pregnant

You must sign a consent form.

How the test will feel

You will feel a sharp sting when the numbing medicine is injected. You may feel a brief, sharp pain when the liquid (aspirate) is removed.

The biopsy needle may also cause a brief, usually more dull, pain. Since the inside of the bone cannot be numbed, this test may cause some discomfort. However, not all patients have such pain.

Why the test is performed

Your doctor may order this test if you have abnormal types or numbers of red or white blood cells on a complete blood count. It may also be done to check for other diseases in the bone marrow, (including cancer), or certain types of anemia.

It may also be done to see how well a person responds to treatment for certain cancers.

Normal Values

The marrow has normal cells that are the correct types and numbers.

What abnormal results mean

Abnormal results may be due to cancers of the bone marrow (leukemia or Hodgkin's disease).

The results may detect the cause of anemia (too few red blood cells), abnormal white blood cells, or thrombocytopenia (too few platelets).

Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:

What the risks are

Persistent bleeding and infection are rare and can be controlled.

Special considerations

This test is often performed when there are problems with the various types of blood cells. The person may be at increased risk for bleeding, infection, or other problems.

References

McPherson RA and Pincus MR. Henry's Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods. 21st ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2007:478-481.

Hoffman R, Benz Jr. EJ, Shattil SJ, et al., eds. Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice. 4th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Churchill Livingston; 2005:2657.

User Avatar

Wiki User

14y ago

What else can I help you with?

Related Questions

What is a bone marrow biopsy?

it is a bone that has a marrow in the middle of the musle that causes the bone to have a marrow biopsy


Is bone marrow biopsy painful-?

The bone marrow biopsy is really painful. You will need an anesthesia to keep you comfortable.


How much does a bone marrow biopsy cost here in the Philippines?

The cost of a bone marrow biopsy in the United States is $360. The Philippines offer bone marrow biopsies for 50% less than those done in the United States.


What part of the body is most commanly used for a bone marrow biopsy?

The most common site for a bone marrow biopsy is the posterior iliac crest, which is the back of the hip bone.


What has the author R Bartl written?

R. Bartl has written: 'Biopsy of bone in internal medicine' -- subject(s): Atlases, Biopsy, Bone, Bone Diseases, Bone and Bones, Histopathology, Methods, Pathology 'Bone marrow biopsies revisited' -- subject(s): Bone Marrow Examination, Bone marrow, Cytodiagnosis, Diagnosis, Examination, Hematologic Diseases, Needle biopsy, Neoplasms


Can a bone marrow biopsy determine if you are compatible for a bone marrow transplant?

Yes, a bone marrow biopsy can determine if the donor and recipient are compatible for a bone marrow transplant. This involves analyzing the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) markers present in the bone marrow cells of both the donor and recipient to assess compatibility. Matching these markers increases the chances of a successful transplant.


I have extra large red blood cells and need a bone marrow biopsy what can be causing this and why do I need a bone marrow biopsy?

Having extra large red blood cells may indicate a condition called macrocytic anemia, which can be caused by vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, liver disease, or certain medications. A bone marrow biopsy is needed to investigate the underlying cause, such as determining if the bone marrow is producing blood cells effectively or if there are any abnormalities in the bone marrow cells. This helps in diagnosing the specific condition and guiding appropriate treatment.


What secondary biopsy may be performed on a patient with lymphoma?

The doctor may perform a bone marrow biopsy.


What is the CPT Code for Bone marrow biopsy by needle aspiration?

38221


What is recovery from a bone marrow biopsy like?

Sore for a few days after it


What has the author Anwarul Islam written?

Anwarul Islam has written: 'Manual of bone marrow examination' -- subject(s): Bone marrow, Biopsy, Examination


What is the typical site of a bone marrow biopsy on an adult?

Iliac crest