Pathology/Hematology Pearls

Pathology/Hematology Pearls:

1) Thrombocytopenia**, REGARDLESS of severity, is ‪‎NOT a contraindication of Bone Marrow Biopsy.

2) ABSOLUTE ‪contraindications to performing a Bone Marrow Biopsy:
⌂ Hemophilia
⌂ Severe DIC, or other related severe bleeding disorders (Other than Thrombocytopenia).

3) Sternum:
Bone Marrow Aspiration ⇒ OK (if carefully done)
‪#‎but 
Bone Marrow BIOPSY ⇒ Contraindicated.

4) Most favorite (common) site for BM exam aspirate/biopsy:

Posterior superior iliac crest and spine ⇒ Adults, Children & most Infants.
Anterior Tibia ⇒ premature infants and some full-term infants (Age must be BELOW 18 moths)

**However depending on the circumstances, platelet transfusion to insure a platelet count >20,000/mL may be warranted PRIOR to the procedure.