Bone marrow aspirationDefinition: Bone marrow is the soft tissue inside bones that helps form blood cells. It is found in the hollow part of most bones. Bone marrow aspiration is the removal of a small amount of this tissue in liquid form for examination.
See also:
Alternative Names: Iliac crest tap; Sternal tap
How the test is performed: Bone marrow aspiration may be done in the health care provider's office or in a hospital. The bone marrow will be removed from your pelvic or breast bone. Occasionally, another bone is selected.
The health care provider will clean the skin and apply a numbing medicine (local anesthesia) to the area and surface of the bone. Next, a special needle is inserted into the bone. The needle has a tube attached to it, which creates suction. A small sample of bone marrow fluid flows into the tube. The needle is removed.
A laboratory specialist looks at the bone marrow fluid under a microscope.
How to prepare for the test: Tell the health care provider:
- If you are allergic to any medications
- If you are pregnant
- If you have bleeding problems
- What medications you are taking
You must sign a consent form for the procedure.
How the test will feel: You will feel a sting and slight burning sensation when the numbing medicine is applied. You may feel pressure as the needle is inserted into the bone, and a sharp and sometimes painful sucking sensation as the marrow is removed. This feeling lasts for only a few moments.
On rare occasions, patients are given medicine to help them relax.
Why the test is performed: Your doctor may order this test if you have abnormal types or numbers of red or white blood cells or platelets on a complete blood count. This test is used to diagnose:
-
Anemia (some types)
- Infections
- Leukemia
- Other blood disorders
It may help determine whether cancers have spread or responded to treatment.
Normal Values: The bone marrow should contain the proper number and types of:
- Blood-forming (hematopoietic) cells
- Connective tissues
- Fat cells
What abnormal results mean: Abnormal results may be due to:
What the risks are: There may be some bleeding at the puncture site. More serious risks, such as serious bleeding or infection, are very rare.
Special considerations: This test is often performed when there are problems with various types of blood cells. The person may be at increased risk for bleeding, infection, or other problems.
References: Hoffman R, Benz EJ, Shattil SS, et al. Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Elsevier Churchill Livingstone; 2008.
Ohls RK, Christensen RD. Development of the hematopoietic system. In: Kliegman RM, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, Stanton BF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 18th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap.446.
Quesenberry PJ. Hematopoiesis and hematopoietic growth factors. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2007:chap 160.
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