Description
Overview:
Bone Marrow Aspiration is a diagnostic procedure used to obtain a sample of the fluid portion of the bone marrow. The bone marrow is the spongy tissue inside some of your larger bones where blood cells (red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets) are made. This test provides a detailed look at the health and production of these cells.
Why is this test performed?
Your doctor may recommend a bone marrow aspiration for several reasons, including:
- Diagnosing Blood Disorders: To investigate the cause of abnormal blood test results, such as unexplained anemia, thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), or leukopenia (low white blood cell count).
- Evaluating Cancers: To diagnose or stage cancers that affect the bone marrow, such as leukemia, lymphoma, or multiple myeloma.
- Investigating Fevers: To find the cause of a fever of unknown origin that hasn’t responded to standard treatments.
- Monitoring Treatment: To track the response to treatment for a known blood disorder or cancer.
How it Works
This is a medical procedure performed by a trained doctor or specialist.
- Preparation: The procedure is typically done on the back of the hip bone (posterior iliac crest). The area is cleaned, and a local anesthetic is injected to numb the skin and surface of the bone.
- Aspiration: A special hollow needle is inserted through the skin and into the bone. A syringe attached to the needle is used to quickly withdraw (aspirate) a small sample of the liquid bone marrow. You may feel a brief, sharp pain or stinging sensation during the aspiration.
- Completion: The needle is removed, and pressure is applied to the site to stop any bleeding. A sterile bandage is then applied.
Test Details
- Sample Type: Bone Marrow Aspirate (liquid marrow)
- Preparation: No special preparation is usually required, but inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, especially blood thinners.
- Turnaround Time (TAT): Preliminary results may be available within 24-48 hours, but specialized tests (e.g., genetics, flow cytometry) can take 1-2 weeks.
- Method: The sample is examined under a microscope by a pathologist or hematologist. Additional tests like flow cytometry, cytogenetics, or molecular studies may also be performed.
Note: This is an invasive medical procedure. It is performed in a clinic or hospital setting by a qualified healthcare professional. The results must be interpreted by a specialist physician in the context of your overall health.
