bone marrow biopsy
A diagnostic procedure involving extraction of bone marrow tissue to examine cellular composition and architecture for hematologic disorders.
Full Definition
A bone marrow biopsy is a medical procedure in which a sample of bone marrow tissue is extracted, typically from the posterior iliac crest, to evaluate the cellular composition, architecture, and any abnormalities within the bone marrow. This procedure is essential in hematologic oncology for diagnosing blood cancers, staging disease, monitoring treatment response, and detecting minimal residual disease. The biopsy provides information about cell morphology, immunophenotype, cytogenetics, and molecular abnormalities that cannot be obtained from peripheral blood alone.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from bone marrow aspiration, which obtains liquid marrow rather than solid tissue core.
In Context
- "The bone marrow biopsy confirmed acute myeloid leukemia with 65% blasts." — Pathology report
- "A bone marrow biopsy is scheduled to assess treatment response after two cycles." — Treatment plan