Skip to content

Cellularity Assessment (Bone Marrow)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test evaluates the number of different blood cell-forming cells (stem cells and immature cells) in your bone marrow. It helps assess whether your bone marrow is functioning normally or if there may be an issue like low blood cell counts or a blood disorder.

Quick summary

["This test helps doctors check if your bone marrow is making enough healthy blood cells."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
67127-1
Short code
CELLFC
Synonyms
Cellularity assessment Spec FC-Imp
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Sterile specimen container appropriate for tissue (e.g., RPMI transport medium for bone marrow/biopsy) or anticoagulated tube (EDTA or heparin) for fluid specimens
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 0 years
Method
flow-cytometry
CPT
88184
SNOMED
252390006
Specimen volume
Varies by specimen type; typically 1-3 mL for fluid specimens or tissue biopsy in transport medium
Stability
Specimen should be processed within 24-48 hours of collection; maintain at 2-8°C (refrigerated) during transport; viability decreases significantly after 48 hours
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order a bone marrow cellularity assessment if you have symptoms like fatigue, frequent infections, unusual bleeding, or unexplained anemia. It’s also used to monitor conditions like leukemia, lymphoma, or other blood disorders. Sometimes, it’s done before or after treatments like chemotherapy or radiation.

How the Test Works

A small sample of bone marrow is taken from your hip bone (usually under mild sedation). The sample is examined under a microscope to count and identify different types of cells. This process helps determine if the marrow is producing enough healthy blood cells.

Sample Collection and Preparation

The test requires a bone marrow biopsy, which involves inserting a needle into your hip bone to collect a small amount of marrow. This is done in a hospital or clinic setting with anesthesia to minimize discomfort.

What to Expect Before the Test

You may need to avoid certain medications (like blood thinners) before the procedure, depending on your doctor’s instructions. Tell your doctor about any allergies or conditions you have, including bleeding disorders or recent infections.

Reference range

Interpretation provided as a narrative report by a qualified pathologist. Results describe cellular composition, viability, proportions of immune cell subsets, and overall cellularity relative to specimen type and clinical context.N/A

Specimen: serum

No special patient preparation required. Specimen collection should be performed by qualified personnel following standard aseptic technique. Clinical history and relevant prior pathology should accompany the specimen for accurate interpretation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Low cellularity (fewer cells than normal) may suggest conditions like aplastic anemia, where the bone marrow isn’t producing enough blood cells. High cellularity could indicate myeloproliferative disorders or other bone marrow diseases. Changes in cellularity can also guide treatment decisions for blood cancers or other hematologic conditions.

Short name

Bone Marrow Cell Count

Frequently asked questions

What does a low or high bone marrow cell count mean?
A low bone marrow cell count may mean your body isn’t making enough healthy blood cells, which could lead to anemia, low white blood cell counts (increasing infection risk), or low platelet counts (increasing bleeding risk). A high count might suggest overactive marrow or certain blood disorders.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on lab processing and your doctor’s schedule. Your healthcare provider will discuss the findings with you during a follow-up visit.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
You can usually eat and drink normally before the test unless your doctor advises otherwise. Follow any specific instructions they provide, such as fasting for certain medications or avoiding certain foods.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy