Most specialists that I've encountered want that initial BM biopsy. I've had 2 over the years. The second was about 10 years after the first. This was probably because I was with a new specialist and did not have access to the first one. While it's not pleasant, it's out patient (done is the doctor's office) and really not as bad as it sounds. Hurts during but it's over pretty quick. Little sore after for a day or so but I was able to keep my routine without interruption. Diagnosis ET with Jak2

Hi Ken,
I am recently diagnosed with ET.

According to my MPN ultra specialist (Dr. Laura Michael’s , Froedert Cancer center Milwaukee, Wisconsin),

the BMB Is a vital piece of information in making a firm diagnosis and establishing a baseline. She wouldn’t begin treatment without it.

Please go for it. A few different ways to get it accomplished it is quick a couple minutes and so worth it.

My
Previous old-school generalist oncologist was not up-to-date, resisted it. I would never feel comfortable with him handling my care. As he doesn’t have knowledge or experience of the multitude of medication’s, which are possible for ET or. PV.

I understand there are so many questions in the beginning. It’s a steep learning curve. I hope you can get connected with a true nationally recognized specialist found on Google ASAP.

Best wishes Ken! You can do it!

Ruth

The answer is "it depends." The MPN diagnosis can sometimes be made with blood test results alone. Sometimes it is necessary for the bone marrow morphology to be examined to make the diagnosis. A BMB is needed to determine the level of fibrosis. Some doctors prefer to do a BMB for all MPN patients to establish a baseline. Others will wait until there is a change in status when the diagnosis is clear from the blood test results. The patient preference also matters. Do you feel a BMB is needed and in your best interests? It is not always a black-an-white decision.

Morning Ken. I do agree with Steve's comment. It depends on where we are in the cycle, current well-being and the doctor's assessment. Upon seeing my doctor recently, she did acknowledge that a biopsy is a more accurate than blood markers alone. I suppose there's no right or wrong Ken. I hope you are well and in good spirits :)

Ken, welcome. I read your story and it sounds like you are still being tested. One phlebotomy for PV so I guess HCT is over 45 where they want hct to be under 45 to reduce risk of clots. Bone marrow biopsy may be good idea to see extent of condition and then in 5 or 10 years to see if there are changes. Some patients live for 30 or 40 years or more with this condition. Present studies are testing new meds and combinations of medications with encouraging results. If you aren't seeing a hematologist who specializes in myeloproliferative neoplasm, please look for one. Major Cancer centers s/b your goal to find best docs.