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Myelogram – Bone Marrow Biopsy

The myelogram is the aspiration puncture of the bone morrow, an exam that aims to verify the functioning by the blood cells produced analysis. It is carried out to diagnose cancers such as lymphoma, myeloma and leukemia. Find out more
Myelogram – Bone Marrow Biopsy

Also known as bone marrow aspiration puncture, the myelogram is a test that aims to check the functioning of the bone marrow by the blood cells produced analysis. It is carried out to diagnose cancers that attack blood cells, such as lymphoma, myeloma, and leukemia, or the appearance of a secondary cancer in those who have already been diagnosed with a breast or prostate tumor, for example.

Other specific marrow disorders (such as marrow aplasia or myelodysplasia) and infectious diseases (such as leishmaniasis) may require a myelogram for diagnostic confirmation.

Through myelogram it is also possible to perform other state-of-the-art genetic evaluations, such as molecular analysis, immunophenotyping, and cytogenetics.

How the myelogram is carried out

The myelogram is carried out with a thick needle that can reach the inside part of the bone, where the bone marrow is located. It is usually carried out on the iliac crest – the bone located in the hip region – but it can also use other areas, such as the sternum (located in the thorax) and the tibia (leg’s bone – in this case, carried out more often in children).

The area must be anesthetized to reduce the pain and discomfort of the test. The syringe aspirates the material from the marrow and a small fragment of the bone. The material is sent to a laboratory to identify whether or not there are malignant cells affecting the white blood cells, the red blood cells, and the platelets in the blood.

When the doctor requires the myelogram

A myelogram is usually required when another test, the CBC, has previously indicated some type of change, such as fewer blood cells or too many immature cells. Thus, a myelogram enters into the investigation in order to understand the cause of the change.

The main situations in which a doctor may suspect a bone marrow problem and require a myelogram are:

  • Investigation of unexplained anemia or a reduction in the white blood cells and platelets number;
  • Searching for changes causes in the blood cells function or shape;
  • Diagnosis of hematological cancer, such as leukemia or multiple myeloma, among others, as well as follow-up of its treatment;
  • Suspicious of metastasis of a serious cancer to the bone marrow
  • Investigation of fever of unknown cause; and
  • Suspicious of infiltration of the bone marrow by substances such as iron (in the case of hemochromatosis) or infections (such as visceral leishmaniasis).

Possible Risks

The myelogram is a safe, quick procedure with rare complications. The most common is for the patient to feel pain or discomfort at the puncture area after the test, as well as a little bleeding and the formation of a hematoma.

Infection or allergies can also occur, but are rare. If there is persistent pain, bleeding, or fever, the patient should see a doctor. 

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