Bone Marrow Aspiration
and Biopsy
Also known as: Bone Marrow; Bone Marrow Test
Formal name: Bone Marrow Aspiration; Bone Marrow Biopsy
Related tests: CBC; Differential; Reticulocyte count; Blood smear; Hemoglobin; Hematocrit; Platelet count; WBC; RBC
At a Glance
Why Get Tested?
To evaluate the type, quantity, and maturity levels of the blood cells present in the marrow; to evaluate the fibrous structure of the marrow; and sometimes to collect a sample of marrow for more specific testing
When to Get Tested?
When a patient is anemic without an obvious cause and/or has a condition or cancer that may be affecting blood cell production; sometimes when a doctor is investigating a fever of unknown origin, especially when the patient is immuno-compromised
Sample Required?
A bone marrow sample collected primarily from the hip bone (pelvis); sometimes collected from the sternum in adults or the tibia (shin bone) in infants
Test Preparation Needed?
None
