← Return to Bone marrow biopsy and/or blood tests for MGUS

Discussion
Comment receiving replies
Profile picture for Lori, Volunteer Mentor @loribmt

@barbarian1 After reading through a couple of your comments I was a little confused about your needing a BMT…and wanted to clarify things for you. I see references to having a BMT, which is a bone marrow transplant. I think you’re referring to a bone marrow biopsy which is usually listed as a BMB or BMBX (bone marrow biopsy and exam).
If your doctor is recommending the biopsy, it is a relatively simple procedure but it can be a little uncomfortable for a few moments. Depending on where you’re able to have the procedure done, some facilities can offer a light sedation, such as people have for a colonoscopy. If that’s not available, the doctor or NP will still be using anesthetic to numb the site where the biopsy will be taken. That is in the lower back (either side) right near the dimple on your bum. I’ve had 13 of these done and the anxiety leading up to the procedure is far worse than actually having it done.

I’m sorry that your mom passed away from a treatment for unknown cancer, but this should have nothing to do with your having a BMBX. These are safe, routine procedures that doctors use to be able to get to the heart of the blood manufacturing site…and that’s in the marrow. The results can give your doctor an overall picture of the health of your marrow and its ability to produce healthy blood cells. This is nothing to fear. It’s an important ‘tool’ for you and your doctor to find the correct diagnosis and possible treatment if needed to keep you healthy.

Will you consider having this done?

Jump to this post


Replies to "@barbarian1 After reading through a couple of your comments I was a little confused about your..."

@loribmt my abbrev bmt is bone marrow test, not transplant. Ty for correcting. I had cortisone shot under live X-ray in 04 for my ruptured L4 L5 back discs that was too traumatic for me so I'm worried bout this intrusive test too. U say they can put me out too (not just pain shot) as option?

@loribmt also in googling my blood test results showed probability dx of either Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM) — also known as lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma or MGUS😱 😿