What To Expect From A Bone Marrow Biopsy

What Abnormal Results Can Mean

A patient's bone marrow tissues are sent to a laboratory where a pathologist evaluates them underneath a powerful microscope for abnormalities. A bone marrow biopsy tells doctors the count and what types of red blood cells, platelets, and white blood cells are present and their stages of development. The cellularity or quantity of blood cells in comparison to other bone marrow components is also examined. The bone marrow biopsy report usually includes a description of the bone marrow environment appearance and the cells that were seen. Too many of certain types of cells that have been identified in an individual's bone marrow can be indicative of myeloproliferative neoplasms or leukemia. Low numbers of red blood cells and hemoglobin can indicate the patient is affected by some form of anemia, and low numbers of other types of cells can indicate myelodysplastic syndrome. Changes observed in the shape of red blood cells can indicate the patient is affected by myelofibrosis or sickle cell anemia. Doctors usually schedule a follow-up appointment to review any abnormal results.

Uncover what the next steps are after a biopsy next.