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Bone Marrow Aspirate and Core Biopsy Manual Examination for Cellular Morphology

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

This test involves examining cells from a small sample of bone marrow taken from your body to check for abnormal cell growth, infections, or other health issues.

Quick summary

["A bone marrow biopsy helps diagnose blood disorders, cancers, or infections by analyzing cell types and structure."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
50374-8
Short code
Myelocytes.eos NFr Mar Manual
Synonyms
Myelocytes.eos NFr Mar Manual
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
manual-count
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why is this test done?

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, easy bruising, frequent infections, or unexplained weight loss. It’s also used to check for conditions like leukemia, anemia, or other bone marrow problems.

What happens during the procedure?

A needle is inserted into your hip bone or sternum to collect bone marrow samples. You’ll feel pressure but no pain. The sample is then sent to a lab for microscopic review by a trained pathologist.

What should you expect after the test?

You may have mild bruising or soreness at the injection site. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 24 hours. Follow-up instructions from your doctor will guide recovery.

Is this test safe?

The procedure carries minimal risk, but complications like infection or bleeding are rare. Your doctor will assess risks based on your health and medical history.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test is critical for diagnosing conditions affecting blood cell production, such as cancers (e.g., leukemia), infections (e.g., osteomyelitis), or genetic disorders (e.g., Fanconi anemia). It helps determine treatment options or monitor disease progression.

Short name

Bone marrow smear review

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results typically take 1–3 days, depending on lab processing and pathologist review. Your doctor will discuss findings during a follow-up visit.
What should I do if I have pain or swelling after the procedure?
Apply ice for 15 minutes if needed, and contact your doctor if pain persists beyond 24 hours or if signs of infection (fever, redness) appear.
Can I eat or drink before the test?
You can eat and drink normally unless instructed otherwise by your doctor. No fasting is required for this procedure.
  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