Etymed
bone marrow biopsy
Definition
A medical procedure involving the surgical removal and examination of bone marrow tissue to diagnose various conditions affecting bone marrow function
Clinical context
A 32-year-old woman presents with fatigue, petechiae, and recurrent infections. Laboratory studies reveal pancytopenia with hypocellular bone marrow on peripheral blood smear. A bone marrow biopsy is performed to evaluate the cause of marrow failure and guide treatment decisions.
Mnemonic
BONE BIOPSY: 'B'one marrow for 'B'lood disorders, 'M'arrow for 'M'alignant conditions, 'B'iopsy for 'B'etter diagnosis