Bone marrow aspiration

Injury	Disease	Nutrition	Poison

Symptoms	Surgery	Test	Special Topic

Sternum - view of the outside (anterior)

Overview

Risks

Results

Bone marrow aspiration

Definition:

The bone marrow is the tissue that manufactures the blood cells and is in the hollow part of most bones. This test is done by suctioning some of the bone marrow for examination.

Alternative Names:

Iliac crest tap; Sternal tap

How the test is performed:

The site of puncture will be cleansed with an antiseptic solution, and you will be given a local anesthetic at the area. The site may be the pelvic bone or the breastbone.

Occasionally, another bone is selected. Then, a thin aspirating needle (a needle with a syringe attached that will create a suction) is inserted, and a small sample of the bone marrow fluid is withdrawn. The fluid is placed on a slide for microscopic examination.

How to prepare for the test:

No special preparation is necessary for this test.

How the test will feel:

There will be a prick and a slight burning sensation with the local anesthetic. Pressure may be felt as the needle is inserted into the bone. There is a sharp sucking sensation as the marrow is aspirated, which lasts for only a few moments.

Why the test is performed:

This test is used to diagnose leukemia and other disorders that affect the blood. It may help determine if cancers have metastasized (spread). It is also helpful in diagnosing some types of anemia and infections.

Review Date: 2/3/2005
Reviewed By: Rita Nanda, M.D., Department of Hematology/Oncology, University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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