Myelogram, also called bone marrow aspiration, is a test that aims to verify bone marrow function from the analysis of the blood cells produced. This test is then requested by the doctor in case of suspected illnesses that may interfere with this production, such as leukemia, lymphoma or myeloma.
This test should be done with a thick needle, capable of reaching the inner part of the bone marrow, popularly known as bone marrow, so a small localized anesthesia is necessary to reduce pain and discomfort during the procedure.
- After collecting the material.
- The hematologist or pathologist will analyze the blood sample and identify possible changes.
- Such as a decrease in blood cell production.
- The production of defective or cancerous cells.
- For example.
Myelogram is usually requested after changes in the blood formula, in which few or a large number of immature cells are identified, for example, indicating changes in the bone marrow. Thus, the myelogram is requested to investigate the cause of the change, and may be indicated by the doctor in the following situations:
Therefore, the result of myelogram is very important in the diagnosis of several diseases, allowing adequate treatment. In some cases, a bone marrow biopsy, a more complex and time-consuming examination may also be needed, as a piece of bone needs to be removed, but it is often important to give more details about the bone marrow. Find out what bone marrow biopsy is for and how it is used.
A myelogram is an exam that targets the body’s deep tissues, as it is usually done by a family doctor or hematologist. Generally, the bones in which myelograms are performed are the sternum, located in the chest, the iliac crest, which is the bone located in the area of the pelvis, and the tibia, the leg bone, does more in children, and its steps include:
Once the material is collected, it is necessary to analyze and interpret the result, which can be done by blade, by the doctor himself, as well as by machines specialized in the analysis of blood cells.
Usually, myelogram is a quick procedure with rare complications, however, it is possible to feel pain or discomfort at the puncture site, as well as bleeding, bruising or infection. Material collection may be necessary, in some cases, due to the insufficient or inadequate sample quantity for analysis.