Bone Marrow Aspiration?

Today, I had my follow up appt. with Dr. Roman.  She gave me a sample of new iron and b12 vitamins called Replieva, which are supposed to help with gut absorption, since I've been diagnosed with being a malabsorber.  Its fairly interesting to hear this, because it gives a reason for my low iron other than the thal affecting my hemoglobin.

I have a CT scan scheduled in January for my entire body - she wants to see my lymph nodes too.  Im having a fairly bad splenic attack the past few days - fevers, chills, fatigue, yellow eyes, gums bleeding, and reffered pain - the works.  My blood work from 2 weeks ago looked very low normal, so she couldn't justify transfusing me today until she gets today's bloodwork back.  I don't know when I'll hear, hopefully tommorow. 

After my CT scan, if my spleen is still as enlarged as it is, she wants to do a bone marrow aspiration.  Ive never had this before, and all Ive read says its for diagnostic purposes for thalassemia.  Well, if we know I have it already, why put me thru this pain? Or are there other reasons she is doing this, other diagnostic purposes? Anyone else had one that are minors? I know its common in majors.  ::: I hope I'm not going to be re-classified.  I'll never be able to get health insurance if I switch jobs!! LOL 

Hi Courtenay,

It may be because of the combination of thal minor and malabsorption of iron why they want to do the bone marrow aspiration. It's a simple procedure done with a local anesthetic and doesn't cause much pain. This test will show exactly how much is being produced of the different types of blood cells

From http://www.labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/bone_marrow/sample.html

Bone marrow aspiration and/or biopsy as a “test” includes both the collection of marrow and bone samples and the evaluation of it under the microscope. A pathologist or hematologist microscopically examines slides containing stained smears of marrow samples (bone and/or fluid). The number, size, and shape of each of the cell types present are examined, as are the proportions of mature and immature cells...The bone marrow biopsy and aspiration provide information about the status of and capability for blood cell production...A marrow aspiration and/or biopsy may be ordered to help evaluate blood cell production...to help diagnose a bone marrow disorder...and to help determine whether a severe anemia is due to decreased RBC production, increased loss, abnormal RBC production, and/or to a vitamin or mineral deficiency or excess. Conditions that affect the marrow can affect the number, mixture, and maturity of the cells, and can affect its fibrous structure.

Because of the many questions surrounding your condition, I think the bone marrow aspiration may be of great benefit in determining what is and what is not happening in your body. It will also determine if you do need a transfusion.

hi
   the bone marrowaspiration is not realy big deal with the expiriance Dr but the prosedure for the patients is a lettle is really big and hug deal  any way am her going to make it easy for you ..
         1: the Dr going to put for you an emla cream on your back
         2: after an houre he will get some kind of instrument and brek the skin and with the same instrument will make very small hole in the bone .
         3:with spicial syringe he will take a sample from the bone marrow
                              khalifa
                        state of kuwait

           P.S. : a photo for my son ABDULWAHAB where Dr.Paola Polchi took a sample of the bone marrow

Hi courtney.

I am sad to hear that you are having so much problem,I hope that the bone marrow aspiration is not too traumatic for you.
Make sure the doctor gives you anasthetic injection before he/she perfom the proceedure.
I have been told that it is fairly painfull for a few days afterward,
Remember we all be thinking of you and sending good positive vibes for your recovery.you are not alone,may you have strength and courage and most all may god be with you.
Good luck and keep us inform if you wish.
 :hug :hug :hug hugs
from
kathy