A bone marrow biopsy is a medical procedure used to diagnose conditions related to the blood or bone marrow. During this procedure, a small sample of bone marrow is collected from inside a bone using a special needle. This sample is then examined under a microscope by a pathologist to detect any abnormalities or signs of disease.
Bone marrow is a soft, spongy tissue and liquid inside the bones that plays a crucial role in producing red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Any disruption in this process can lead to serious health issues. A bone marrow biopsy helps doctors determine the exact cause of abnormal blood counts and guides them in creating an effective treatment plan.
Who May Need to Do a Bone Marrow Biopsy?
Bone marrow biopsy is advisable for patients who have:
- Unexplained low blood counts (red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets)
- Suspected blood-related conditions, such as anemia, leukemia, lymphoma, or other blood cancers
- Cancer that may have spread to the bone marrow from another part of the body
- Need for cancer staging to understand how advanced the disease is
- Disorders affecting bone marrow function or blood cell production
- Need to monitor ongoing treatment, such as assessing the effectiveness of chemotherapy or other therapies
What are the Conditions or Diseases That Can be Diagnosed?
A bone marrow biopsy is done to diagnose the following condition:
- Anemia: A condition where low red blood cells lead to reduced oxygen supply in the body
- Leukemia: A cancer marked by the presence of abnormal white blood cells
- Lymphoma: A cancer of the lymphatic system that may spread to the bone marrow
- Multiple Myeloma: A disorder caused by the abnormal growth of plasma cells in the bone marrow
- Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS): A group of conditions where the bone marrow produces poorly formed blood cells
- Myeloproliferative Disorders: Conditions in which the bone marrow produces too many blood cells
- Aplastic Anemia: A serious disorder where the bone marrow fails to produce enough blood cells
- Infections: Bone marrow infections or unexplained infections affecting blood cell production
- Cancer Metastasis: Cancers from other parts of the body that spread to the bone marrow
A bone marrow biopsy can also detect the deformities in your chromosomes and vitamin deficiencies, which can trigger morphological abnormalities of the blood cells.
Procedure
Before Bone Marrow Biopsy
Before undergoing the procedure, your doctor may ask you to do the following:
- Provide your complete medical history and recent blood test results
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding
- Share details of any medications or blood thinners you are taking
- Mention any allergies, especially to anesthesia
- Follow instructions regarding eating, drinking, or temporarily pausing certain medications
During Bone Marrow Biopsy
- You will be positioned comfortably, usually lying on your side or stomach
- The biopsy site (commonly the hip bone) will be cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic
- A special needle is inserted into the bone to collect a small marrow sample
- You may feel pressure, pulling, or sharp pain during the procedure
- Often, a bone marrow aspiration (liquid sample) is done first, followed by the biopsy (solid tissue sample)
- The procedure typically takes 20–30 minutes
Aftercare and Recovery
After the procedure, a bandage will be applied to the biopsy site. Mild soreness, bruising, or tenderness is common for 1–2 days. Keep the area clean and dry for at least 24 hours, and avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 24–48 hours. Mild pain can be managed with over-the-counter medications.
Contact your doctor if you experience excessive bleeding, swelling, fever, or unusual discharge. Most patients can resume normal daily activities within a day.
Also Read:- Bone Marrow Transplant Cost in India
What are the Risks/Complications Related to Bone Marrow Biopsy?
While generally safe, potential risks include:
- Mild bleeding or bruising at the biopsy site
- Pain or tenderness lasting a few days
- Infection (rare)
- Allergic reaction to anesthesia (very rare)
- Prolonged bleeding in patients with clotting disorders
Most complications are minor and manageable with proper care.
Key Takeaway
A bone marrow biopsy is a safe, quick procedure that helps diagnose blood and bone marrow disorders such as anemia, leukemia, and lymphoma. Proper preparation and aftercare ensure a smooth procedure and fast recovery, while the results guide doctors in planning effective treatment and monitoring ongoing therapies.
At BMT Clinic, you will receive complete guidance throughout the diagnosis, biopsy, and treatment process. We offer affordable and transparent cost options for both national and international patients, ensuring personalized care and expert support every step of the way.