There is something wrong with your blood report, and did you feel a little scared when the doctor said that you need to do a 'bone marrow test' to find out the exact cause? Although the words "bone marrow" may sound like a major surgery, this is actually not something to be afraid of. This is often done to find out the exact information about blood-related diseases. So, let's talk about this in a simple way today, in a way that will clear up all the doubts in your mind.
First, let's see, what is bone marrow?
Simply put, bone marrow is a soft, spongy tissue inside the large bones of our body. It's like our blood factory. It's here that your body produces all three types of cells: red blood cells (which carry oxygen), white blood cells (which protect us from disease), and platelets (which help blood clot).
So if there is something abnormal in the blood, that is, if these cell types decrease, increase, or if abnormal cells are formed, the best place to find the cause is to examine this "factory".
What is the difference between aspiration and biopsy?
You've probably heard both of these words. Both are methods of testing bone marrow.
- Bone Marrow Aspiration : This involves removing a small sample of the liquid part of the bone marrow using a hollow needle.
- Bone Marrow Biopsy: This involves removing a small piece of the dense, spongy tissue in the bone marrow.
Often, doctors perform both of these tests at the same time to get a complete picture of the patient's condition.
Why are you being asked to take this test?
Imagine that your blood test (Full Blood Count) shows an abnormally low or high number of red cells, white cells, or platelets. Your doctor may recommend this test to find out exactly what is causing it.
This test clearly shows whether the bone marrow is healthy and producing the necessary amount of blood cells.
The table below lists some of the conditions that can be diagnosed with this test.
| Medical condition | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Anemia | A decrease in the number of red blood cells in the body. This is to determine if the cause is a problem with the bone marrow. |
| Leukemia | A type of blood cancer. Excessive production of abnormal white blood cells. |
| Lymphoma | A cancer that occurs in the lymphatic system. To see if it has spread to the bone marrow. |
| Myelodysplastic syndrome | Inability of the bone marrow to produce healthy blood cells. |
| Hemochromatosis | Excessive iron in the body. |
| Cancer spread (Metastasis) | To check if cancer from another location has spread to the bones or bone marrow. |
Additionally, this test is used to see how the bone marrow is responding to treatments during cancer treatment, and to check the health of the bone marrow before and after something like a bone marrow transplant.
What happens before and during the test?
This test is usually performed by an oncologist, a hematologist, or someone who has received special training for it.
Before the test
In most cases, you can eat and drink normally before the test. However, you should tell your doctor about all medications and vitamins you are taking. If you are taking blood thinners , you may be asked to stop taking them a few days before the test.
At the time of the test
This is usually a short process, about 10-20 minutes.
1. Location: The bone marrow sample is usually taken from your pelvic bone. That is, from a spot on your back, just below your waist.
2. Preparation: You will be placed on an examination table, either on your stomach or on your side.
3. Numbness: This is the most important thing. So that you don't feel any pain, the doctor will inject a numbing medicine into the area where the needle is inserted. So you will only feel a slight prick. Sometimes, you may be given sedation to make you a little more relaxed. Then, even though you are conscious, you will be very relaxed.
4. Taking the sample: Next, a special hollow needle is inserted through the skin into the hip bone. A syringe is then attached to the needle and a small amount of bone marrow fluid is withdrawn. At this point, you may feel a slight pulling sensation, which may last for a few seconds.
5. Finishing: After the sample is taken, the needle is removed and a clean bandage is applied to the area.
What to expect after the test
You can go home the same day as the test. However, if you were given sedation, you will need to wait a while for the effects of the medication to wear off. You will definitely need someone to take you home.
It is normal to feel some pain at the puncture site for a few days after the test. This pain may be felt when bending forward or standing. It is also normal for the area around the puncture site to turn blue, like a small bruise.
You should keep the bandage area clean and dry for at least 24 hours until your doctor tells you to.
Are there any side effects? And when should I call the doctor?
This is generally a very safe test , but there are some risks that can occur very rarely.
- An allergic reaction to the anesthetic.
- Excessive bleeding from the puncture site.
- Infection.
These are very rare, but if you have any of the symptoms below after the test, you should call your doctor immediately.
| Warning signs to look out for | |
|---|---|
| Fever | Increased body temperature. |
| Something oozing from the puncture site | Discharge of pus or other fluid. |
| Heavy bleeding | If the bandage gets wet and bleeds. |
| Swelling and redness | If the swelling and redness around the wound increases. |
| Severe pain | If the pain increases day by day. |
Ultimately, the results of this test are not "positive" or "negative," meaning "good" or "bad." The sample is examined under a microscope in a laboratory, and a detailed report is obtained, including the types of cells, their size, shape, whether there are any abnormal cells, and whether there are any signs of infection. Based on that report, your doctor will explain the next steps and treatment that you need.
Take-Home Message
- A bone marrow aspiration is not a major operation. It is an important test to find the cause of blood problems.
- When you do this , the area will definitely be numbed so that you don't feel any pain. So don't be afraid.
- Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking before the test.
- It is normal to have some pain and bruising for a few days after the test.
- If you have symptoms such as fever, excessive bleeding, or swelling , inform your doctor immediately.
- If you have any further questions about this, don't hesitate to ask your doctor.
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