The bone marrow biopsy. A diagnostic strategy

Abstract

Recent technical advances have dramatically improved the diagnostic information available from a properly prepared bone marrow biopsy specimen. The most important of these is the ability to perform both enzyme histochemical and immunohistochemical procedures on the bone marrow biopsy specimen. These techniques make it possible to apply marker studies to all leukemias, including those with marrows that cannot be aspirated, and to focal lesions that may not be present in aspirated material. This review outlines the optimal use of the bone marrow biopsy as a tool in the evaluation of human bone marrow.