Preparation of submitted bone marrow needle cores and microscopic interpretation by anatomic pathologist
Specimen
Bone marrow needle cores should be taken from the proximal humerus with a 11-to-13-gauge Jamshidi needle 3 to 4 inches long. Submit samples in 10% neutral buffer formalin (less than 1L of formalin) using a leak-proof container approved for shipping biological specimens. Bag container in zipper-lock see-through bag separately from cytology slides and other samples. Protect biopsies in freezing temperatures by adding 1:10 ratio isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher) to formalin.
Test Description
This test examines bone marrow for patients with hematopoietic abnormalities. Submit biopsies of marrow in formalin. For best results, a CBC should be submitted simultaneously — this gives the clinical pathologist a more complete view of the hematopoietic system and can help pinpoint disease. A detailed history and time course of events will further aid the clinical pathologist in interpreting the findings.
For patients with suspected osteomyelitis or tumors of bone, submit biopsies in formalin (or complete limbs dampened with saline) and refrigerated using the standard biopsy FBX test code. All shipments must comply with U.S. DOT regulations. Go to website https://www.antechdiagnostics.com/reference-lab/diagnostics/pathology/ for detailed instructions or call Customer Support at 800‑872‑1001, Dial 0.