Description
Why It’s Done
The test is ordered to:
1. Evaluate Iron Stores
• To determine if the body’s iron stores are adequate, depleted, or overloaded.
2. Diagnose Types of Anemia
• Helps differentiate anemia caused by iron deficiency from anemia of chronic disease or other causes.
3. Guide Treatment
• To decide if iron supplementation or other treatments are appropriate.
4. Investigate Other Conditions
• Such as sideroblastic anemia, iron overload disorders (hemochromatosis), or bone marrow disorders.
Preparation
1. Bone Marrow Sample Collection
• The test requires a bone marrow biopsy or aspiration, usually taken from the pelvic bone.
• The procedure is done by a healthcare professional under sterile conditions.
2. Fasting and Medications
• Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions, which may include fasting or stopping certain medications before the procedure.
3. Aftercare
• Some soreness or discomfort at the biopsy site is common; follow aftercare instructions carefully.
