LAB TEST
Bone lesion biopsy
A bone lesion biopsy is the removal of a piece of bone or bone marrow for examination.
How the Test is Performed
The test is done in the following way: An x-ray, CT or MRI scan is likely used to guide the exact placement of the biopsy instrument. The health care provider applies a numbing medicine (local anesthetic) to the area. A small cut is then made in the skin. A special drill needle is often used. This needle is gently…
How to Prepare for the Test
Follow your health care provider's instructions on how to prepare. This may include not eating and drinking for several hours before the procedure. If you take any blood thinners, please make sure you stop them ahead of the procedure.
How the Test will Feel
With a needle biopsy, you may feel some discomfort and pressure, even though a local anesthetic is used. You must remain still during the procedure. After the biopsy, the area may be sore or tender for several days.
Why the Test is Performed
The most common reasons for bone lesion biopsy are to tell the difference between cancerous and noncancerous bone tumors and to identify other bone or bone marrow problems. It may be performed on people with bone pain and tenderness, particularly if x-ray , CT scan, or other testing reveals a problem.
Normal Results
No abnormal bone tissue is found.
What Abnormal Results Mean
An abnormal result may be any of the following problems. Benign (noncancerous) bone tumors, such as: Bone cyst Fibroma Osteoblastoma Osteoid osteoma Cancerous tumors, such as: Ewing sarcoma Multiple myeloma Osteosarcoma Other types of cancer that may have spread to the bone Abnormal results may also be due to:…
Risks
Risks of this procedure may include: Bone fracture Bone infection (osteomyelitis) Damage to surrounding tissue Discomfort Excessive bleeding Infection near the biopsy area A serious risk of this procedure is bone infection. Signs include: Fever Chills Worsening pain Redness and swelling of around the biopsy site…
References
Katsanos K, Sabharwal T, Cazzato RL, Gangi A. Skeletal interventions. In: Adam A, Dixon AK, Gillard JH, Schaefer-Prokop CM, eds. Grainger & Allison's Diagnostic Radiology. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 87. Schwartz HS, Holt GE, Halpern JL. Bone tumors. In: Townsend CM Jr, Beauchamp RD, Evers BM, Mattox…
This is a summary. Read the full article at www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org (reviewed 20/09/2022).
This page is general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace a registered doctor, and it is not a prescription or a recommendation to use any medicine or test. Prices are listed prices and may change. Always follow the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.