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Essential Thrombocythemia: Looking for information and support

Blood Cancers & Disorders | Last Active: Apr 15 2:24pm | Replies (476)
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@jewelfaux

Is a bone marrow test necessary? I was diagnosed with ET through blood tests. I'm JAK2 positive. I am taking a 1000 mg of HU a day. My platelets were 700 but this higher dosage I hope will improve that. I've never had a bone marrow test.

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Replies to "Is a bone marrow test necessary? I was diagnosed with ET through blood tests. I'm JAK2..."
Lori, Volunteer Mentor | @loribmt | Mar 17, 2023

Hi @jewelfaux A bone marrow test is a valuable tool for your hematologist. Since you have a blood disorder, a bone marrow biopsy (and exam) (BMBX) goes right to the blood manufacturing center of your body. A small sample of your marrow and the surrounding peripheral blood will be analyzed and examined to give your doctor a clear view of the health of your bone marrow, its ability to form healthy blood products and also check the condition of your specific blood cells.
You can often choose to have this done under a general anesthesia similar to what’s used in a colonoscopy. I’ve had 13 bmbx done…3 without anesthesia and 10 with…for the record, I’ll always have anesthesia from now on. 😉 It’s a fairly quick procedure with very little discomfort after.

Has your doctor recommended a biopsy for you?

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