Bone Marrow Biopsy
Also known as: BMA, BMAT, marrow biopsy
A procedure that samples the spongy tissue inside a bone to look for blood-cell disorders.
Definition
A bone marrow biopsy samples the spongy tissue inside large bones (usually the back of the hip), where blood cells are made. It is essential for diagnosing and monitoring leukemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma, unexplained anemia, low platelets and other haematological disorders.
The procedure is done under local anaesthetic, usually in under 20 minutes, and most patients feel only brief pressure or a short pulling sensation. Two samples are taken: a liquid aspirate for cell counts, flow cytometry and genetic tests, and a small solid trephine core for architecture and IHC staining. Results typically take a few days. Learn more on the bone-marrow biopsy service page.
See also
- Biopsy — A small sample of tissue taken from the body and examined under a microscope.
- Leukemia — A cancer of the white blood cells that begins in the bone marrow.
- Lymphoma — A cancer of the lymphatic system, which is part of the body's immune defence.
- Multiple Myeloma — A cancer of plasma cells in the bone marrow that can cause bone pain, anemia and kidney problems.
- Hematologic Malignancy — A cancer that arises in the blood, bone marrow or lymphatic system.
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Medically reviewed by
Dr. Rehan Abdullah
Dr. Rehan Abdullah is a dual-trained clinical and radiation oncologist with over a decade of experience treating both solid tumours and hematologic malignancies. He serves as Consultant Oncologist at INMOL Hospital and sees patients at Farooq Hospital and Healthnox Medical Center, Lahore. Read full profile →
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