Bone Marrow Biopsy
Alternate Names : Biopsy - Bone Marrow
DefinitionBone marrow is soft tissue found inside some of the larger bones in the body. The marrow produces platelets and red and white blood cells. A biopsy is a method of removing a small tissue sample from the body to have it examined under a microscope and possibly analyzed by other tests.
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Why is the Test Performed?
The test is done after abnormal types or numbers of red or white blood cells are found in a complete blood count, or to evaluate whether other systemic diseases are present in the bone marrow.
The examination may detect the cause of the abnormality, certain types of anemia (not enough red blood cells), cancer in the marrow, and may be used to monitor the response to therapy for some cancers.
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