Bone Marrow and Blood Production

Blood-forming stem cells are located in the bone marrow.  They act like factories producing the red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.  A simple blood test called a CBC, or complete blood count, is done as part of routine physical examination or as determined by your hematologist. The CBC screens for general health status and for a variety of disorders, including anemia and infection, and to identify abnormalities in the blood cells.  If blood counts are low or if there are abnormalities in the blood cells, your doctor will do further testing. 

If bone marrow disease is suspected, your doctor will want to examine your marrow.  A procedure called a bone marrow aspiration provides information about cell types and iron stores, and the presence or absence of abnormal cells.  A bone marrow biopsy gives a more precise picture of your bone marrow's blood production - the number of cells and the quality of these cells.  In addition, chromosomal studies may be performed. These procedures may be performed at the same time.

Patients vary in their response to low blood counts.  The counts become problematic when symptoms appear.   When the red cell blood cell count is low, symptoms include anemia, exhaustion, weakness, excessive sleeping, palpitations, and headaches. When the white blood cell count is low, symptoms include mouth ulcers, fevers, and infections. When the platelets are low, symptoms include spontaneous bruising, nosebleeds, excessive menstrual bleeding, and gum bleeding.  These symptoms, especially in mild forms, are not uncommon and do not necessarily mean you have bone marrow disease.  It is important to consult a hematologist for a professional diagnosis.

Last Modified: May 10, 2007