Definition

Bone marrow culture is an examination of the soft, fatty tissue found inside certain bones. This tissue, called bone marrow, produces blood cells. The test is done to find out what may be causing an infection.

Alternative Names

Culture - bone marrow

How the test is performed

The doctor removes a sample of your bone marrow from the back of your pelvic bone or breast bone. This may be done using bone marrow aspiration or a biopsy.

The removed tissue is sent to a lab, where it is placed into a special container called a culture dish. Everyday, the laboratory specialist will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if any bacteria, fungi, or viruses have grown.

If microorganisms are found, other tests may be done to learn which drugs will kill the organisms. Treatment can then be started based on these results.

How the test will feel

You may feel pressure and pain as the marrow is being removed. (You may be given some numbing medicine, called anesthesia, prior to the procedure.)

Soreness at the site usually lasts from a few hours to 1-2 days.

Why the test is performed

You may have this test if you have an unexplained fever or if your health care provider thinks you have an infection of the bone marrow.

Normal Values

No organism growth in the culture media is normal.

What abnormal results mean

Abnormal results suggest that you have an infection of the bone marrow. The infection may be bacterial, viral, or fungal.

What the risks are

The risks include bleeding and infection.

Special considerations

Fluid (aspirate) or a piece of tissue (biopsy specimen) from the bone marrow may be sent for many different types of tests. These tests may increase costs.

References

Hoffman R, Benz E, Shattil S, Furie B, Cohen H. Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice. 4th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Churchill Livingstone, 2004.

Cohen J, Powderly WG. Infectious Diseases. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby, 2003.