What is the difference between a bone marrow biopsy and a bone marrow aspiration?

01/04/2020 Jeremy Anderson

Table of Contents

What is the difference between a bone marrow biopsy and a bone marrow aspiration?

In bone marrow aspiration, a needle is used to withdraw a sample of the fluid portion. In bone marrow biopsy, a needle is used to withdraw a sample of the solid portion. Bone marrow aspiration can be performed alone, but it’s usually combined with bone marrow biopsy.

What is the difference between aspiration and trephine biopsy?

Types of biopsy Aspiration means the doctor or nurse sucks some liquid bone marrow up into a syringe. A bone marrow trephine means that they remove a very thin 1 or 2cm long core of bone marrow in one piece. You usually have both of these tests done at the same time.

What is the preferable site for bone marrow aspiration and biopsy?

(A) The posterior iliac crest is the preferred site for bone marrow aspiration and biopsy in adults.

Who performs bone marrow biopsy?

A bone marrow biopsy is typically performed in a doctor’s office or hospital by a hematologist or oncologist. The exam takes approximately 10 minutes, and the total procedure takes 30 minutes.

Why is bone marrow biopsy done?

A bone marrow biopsy is usually done if your healthcare provider thinks that you have a problem making blood cells. A specialist called a pathologist examines blood and bone marrow samples in a lab. The pathologist can check your bone marrow for any of the following: Unexplained anemia (lack of red blood cells)

How is bone biopsy performed?

The doctor makes a small cut in the skin over the bone. Then the doctor places the needle into the bone to take out the sample. They use a very thin one in a fine needle biopsy to remove a small sample of cells or tissue. They will use a larger one to get a bigger piece of bone in a core needle biopsy.

Which bone is used for bone marrow aspiration?

A bone marrow biopsy is often done using a pelvic bone, but another bone (such as the breastbone) may be used. In a child, a leg bone or a bone in the spine (vertebra) may be used.