Aplastic Anemia
Diagnosis

The symptoms of aplastic anemia may resemble other blood disorders or conditions, so in addition to a complete medical history and a thorough physical examination, the following diagnostic tests will be performed:

• Blood Tests — These tests determine the extent of the problem and the possible cause.



• Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy — Bone marrow fluid may be drawn by aspiration or suction. In addition, a needle biopsy may be performed under general anesthesia. In the aspiration phase of the test, a fluid specimen of bone marrow is removed from the hipbone for examination under a microscope. In a needle biopsy, a small piece of the bone marrow is taken by inserting a sturdy needle into the large pelvic bone just below the waist on either side of the spine. This sample is examined in the laboratory for low levels of stem cells and other microscopic changes.

These tests usually are performed together. A pediatric hematologist, a doctor who specializes in blood disorders in children, usually will confirm the diagnosis based on the results.

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Children's Hospital.
Last updated November 6, 2009