Bone Marrow Biopsy

Removal of a sample of bone marrow for testing

Parts of the Body Involved

Pelvic bone

Reasons for Procedure

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 in order to:

Diagnose or rule out leukemia or a bone marrow cancer
Monitor treatment for leukemia
Diagnose specific blood disorders, such as certain types of anemia, thrombocytopenia, and polycythemia
Diagnose immunodeficiency
Diagnose infection

Risk Factors for Complications during the Procedure

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

What to Expect

Prior to Procedure - Blood tests, physical exam

During Procedure

Outcome

The pathologist will give your doctor information about the bone marrow, which will help your doctor make a diagnosis.

Call Your Doctor If Any of the Following Occurs

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