Bone marrow is soft tissue in the center of bones. It produces red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. A biopsy is removing a small piece of tissue for laboratory testing. Bone marrow biopsy is a quick procedure that does not require hospital stay.

A bone marrow biopsy helps diagnose blood disorders or other conditions. These include:
* types of anemia, which are low numbers of red blood cells,
* low levels of white blood cells or platelets,
* blood cell cancers, such as leukemia,
* infections,
* certain types of cancer, and
* side effects of cancer therapy.

A bone marrow biopsy usually takes only 5 to 10 minutes. There are no eating or drinking restrictions before the test. The patient receives an injection with a local pain killer at the biopsy site. He or she is awake for the procedure. The health care provider may offer a mild sedative about an hour before the test.

The biopsy involves passing a needle through the skin and into the bone. The most common bones to sample are the breast bone, hip, spine, rib, or shin. The patient feels pressure when the needle is inserted. There may be a brief, pulling feeling when the marrow is removed. An aspiration biopsy draws out marrow fluid by suction. A needle biopsy removes a small plug of solid marrow. A small needle inside the main needle bores into the marrow. The healthcare provider may apply pressure to the site for 5 minutes before putting on a bandage. He or she usually takes a blood sample from the arm at the same time. Occasionally, he or she must take more than one biopsy from different sites.

The test results indicate whether the various types of blood cells are in balance and developing normally. Too many or too few of certain cell types may indicate specific diseases. The test also reports on certain blood functions, such as clotting.

After the biopsy, one should watch the site for bleeding, redness, or swelling. If you see these signs or notice a rapid pulse or fever after a biopsy, contact your health care provider.

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