Bone marrow biopsy and aspiration

Bone marrow biopsy and aspiration are useful tools for cancer and many other conditions. Find out what a bone marrow biopsy is and what you can expect during the procedure.

Whether you're already receiving treatment for cancer or another condition or doctors are trying to make a diagnosis, your bone marrow has a story to tell. Bone marrow is responsible for the creation of your blood cells, and because of that, it holds a wealth of clues about your health. A bone marrow biopsy and bone marrow aspiration examine your bone marrow to look for those clues.

Bone marrow is spongy tissue found inside some of your larger bones. Bone marrow has a fluid portion and a more solid portion. Bone marrow in your breastbone, hips, ribs, skull and spine contains stem cells. These stem cells turn into white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets; they aren't the same as embryonic stem cells.

Who is a bone marrow biopsy and aspiration for?

To read the entire article click on the following link:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/bone-marrow-biopsy/CA00068