Cat & Dog - Bone Marrow Tests

What is the purpose of a bone marrow test?

Most of the red and white blood cells are formed in the bone marrow.  If a recent blood test indicates a problem with any of the blood cells a bone marrow sample, sent to an appropriate laboratory, may indicate the reason.

What are the common reasons for bone marrow evaluation?

The most common reason is persistent shortage of one or more of the various types of blood cells.  These include white cells, red cells and blood platelets.  By examining the bone marrow the underlying cause can often be determined.

Cancers can arise in the bone marrow and other types may spread to the marrow after developing in other parts of the body.  Examination will help to determine the source of the cancer as well as revealing how seriously the marrow is affected.

Bone marrow samples are sometimes used in the diagnosis of problems, such as recurrent fevers of unknown origin, unexplained weight loss and high blood calcium levels.

How is the sample obtained?

The most common sites are the hip, or sometimes the forearm below the shoulder.

A light general anaesthetic is usually used to avoid any stress or discomfort, although sometimes bone biopsies can be performed under sedation and local anaesthetic.  The site is shaved and a sample taken through a skin incision using a special needle.

Is the sample examined at the practice?

No.  It usually has to be sent to a specialist laboratory.  A report is usually received in about a week.

How helpful is the procedure?

Bone marrow examination is often very valuable to pinpoint the nature of a problem and sometimes to give guidance for future treatment.