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HelpTest ID PPTH5015 Bone Marrow Biopsy
Specimen Type/Requirements
Direct aspirate and touch prep smears collected at bedside. Bone marrow aspirate collected in appropriate anticoagulant, Dark Green (sodium heparin) Tube or Purple-Top (EDTA) Tube.
Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy is performed by the provider
or their designee. Immediately after collection, make 4-6 wedge and
squash smears of the bone marrow aspirate. Place approximately 0.5
mL of the aspirate on a slide and allow to clot. Transfer the
remaining aspirate into an EDTA tube and any other tube(s) required
for special studies. Measure and record the length of the core
biopsy. Make 4 touch preps of the core biopsy (more if dry tap),
then place the biopsy and clot into separate vials containing
formalin. Prepare several myeloid/erythroid (ME) smears from the
buffy coat of the aspirate. Label all slides and vials
appropriately. A CBC must be included with a bone marrow or must
have been done no more than 48 hours prior to the bone marrow
procedure.
Other tube types for special studies as indicated. Contact the
Hematology Laboratory for requirements.
Specimen Volume
Volumes dependent on special studies ordered. Refer to each test code for appropriate volumes.
| Preferred Volume | 1 mL bone marrow aspirate |
| Minimum Volume | 1 mL bone marrow aspirate & 1 cm core biopsy |
Stability/Transport
Transport at room temperature. Send unstained peripheral smears, bone marrow slides (direct, ME, touch preps) in slide holders. Package formalin vials separately from slides. Include recent CBC results (within 48 hours).
Performed Test Frequency
Monday through Friday before 2:00 pm. Bone marrow collections performed at Sanford Health Fargo must be scheduled with the Hematology Lab (701-234-2111). Schedule at least one day in advance whenever possible.
Performing Lab
Sanford Laboratories Fargo-Core Lab
CPT
Multiple CPT
Codes