Bone marrow aspiration

Alternative names:

iliac crest tap; sternal tap

How the test is performed:

You are given a local anesthetic at the site of puncture. The area will be cleansed with an antiseptic solution. The site may be the pelvic bone or the breastbone. Occasionally, another bone is selected. Then a thin aspirating needle (a needle with a syringe attached that will create a suction) is inserted, and a small sample of the bone marrow fluid is withdrawn. The fluid is placed on a slide for microscopic examination.

How to prepare for the test:

Adults:
No special preparation is necessary for this test.

Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:

• infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
• toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
• preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
• schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
• adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the test will feel:

There will be a prick and a slight burning sensation with the local anesthetic. One will feel pressure as the needle is inserted into the bone. There is a sharp sucking sensation as the marrow is aspirated, which lasts for only a few moments.

Why the test is performed:

This test is used to diagnose leukemia and other disorders that affect the blood. It may help determine if cancers have metastasized (spread). It is also helpful in diagnosing some types of anemia and infections.