Quick question...

[hansyhand]

When is a bone marrow biopsy performed? Are there indicators in blood work that would prompt a haematologist to request one?

[Rachelthepotter]

Hi. You might find this link helpful. PatientPower is an excellent USA organisation that has lots of useful info.

patientpower.info/myeloprol...

In my case, the BMB was necessary for the initial diagnosis - to see whether I had ET or MF. I had a history of steadily rising platelets and inexplicable fatigue.

Turned out I had MF. But finding this site helped me a lot .

[Applesnpears]

Blood samples can be tested in a multitude of ways. Many of the components of blood originate in the bone marrow so a BMB might be requested to explain unusual/ abnormal blood counts or blood smear results. An examination of the bone marrow can help confirm or dismiss a diagnosis.

You need to ask why your haematologist thinks a bone marrow biopsy is necessary. It is a bit more involved than a taking a blood sample.

[Hidden]

In my case it was also used to determine wether l had ET or MF. Although the haematologist said other markers indicated ET. I then had a three week wait after the procedure as here three specialists in different fields are used to confirm the results. I had no discomfort with the procedure itself it took about 15 mins and a short rest after

[Applesnpears]

It might be that the haematologist wants to establish a baseline so there is a point of comparison for any BMBs that are done in the future.

Have you been tested for JAK2?

[hansyhand in reply to Applesnpears]

Hi, yes I have the JAK2 mutation and PV.... I just keep seeing people reference their bone marrow biopsies and wondered when it happens. It doesn't sound very nice so I'm not pushing for it! Very happy with my current treatment, just curious!

[Applesnpears in reply to hansyhand]

On balance I think a BMB would be worth having. It tells you about the state of your bone marrow now, while you are doing well. This can be useful to track any changes over time.

Cetainly worth a discussion with your haematologist.

[Cali-Med in reply to hansyhand]

I had a bmb to rule out Polycythemia Vera. My red blood counts were all high but Jak2 negative. The bmb showed no changes to cell structure. I am monitoring with cbcs.

[quonut]

Hi hansyhand, I think the Biopsy is to confirm a diagnoses, ( I had elevated platelets ), in my case it confirmed Polycythemia vera. That was in 2007, so try not to worry, life may change for some of us, but my blood counts have been stable for a long time now. Take care...

[Chaz1]

In the UK it can be performed to aid in diagnosis but in the majority of cases in the UK they don't perform them if its clear from blood counts & history. They are performed more for a baseline, often at the patients request. In UK generally they are performed a few years after diagnosis if there is concerns about changes in treatment etc... In other countries they are performed at diagnosis stage & many will say that you can't be diagnosed without one but you can, they don't always give a clear answer to which MPN but will confirm a MPN.

[MCW22]

I was diagnosed by blood tests alone PV Jak2 + and had a biopsy about 18 months later, so I assume my regular blood tests showed a change that warranted the need for a biopsy

Carol

[Tylerdog1]

I was formally diagnosed with JAK2 PV in 2007 and have had 3 bone marrow biopsies done since.

My Haematologist says it is to check any progression and so that relevant treatment could be provided (started on just Aspirin, then Venesections, then Hydroxy, now Interferon) as my levels increased over the years.

Blood tests measure your various blood counts/ a BMB shows if there is any Fibrosis.

It’s relatively painless, so anything they want to do, so as to ensure I get the correct treatment, is OK with me 🙂

[Cja1956]

I had my first one at diagnoses in 2008 and was told I had ET Jak2. I had my second one last September with a new hematologist because I felt much worse that year and she confirmed my suspicions that I had progressed to MF. She referred me to a bone marrow transplant specialist and he wants me to have yearly ones from now on. The first BMB was done in the doctor’s office and wasn’t bad at all. The second was done in the hospital with light sedation but was more painful and took a couple of days to feel back to normal. I agree with the others, it’s a great diagnostic tool and at least you’ll have a baseline.

Good luck whatever you decide.

[Vtr1000]

Hi hansyhand,

I have recently been diagnosed with ET Jak2. When I was told I had entered the MPN world the haemo offered a BMB as a baseline and left me to decide. I accepted the BMB. I had it done at a later date in hospital.

[Tylerdog1 in reply to Vtr1000]

Like the name - same bike I have 👍