Comparison of relative value of bone marrow aspirates and bone marrow trephine biopsies in the diagnosis of solid tumor metastasis and Hodgkin lymphoma: institutional experience and literature review.

Abstract

Abstract Context.—Bone marrow aspirates as well as bone marrow trephine biopsies are frequently performed to assess whether there is marrow involvement by a malignancy. Numerous reports differ in the relative value of these 2 procedures and fail to provide concise guidelines that can help choose the appropriate technique in this clinical situation. Objective.—To compare the relative value of aspirates and trephine biopsies in the diagnosis of solid tumor metastasis and Hodgkin lymphoma. In addition, we correlate our findings with those of the literature to provide a concise practice guideline. Design.—Sixty-six cases showing bone marrow involvement by solid tumor and Hodgkin lymphoma in bone marrow aspirates, bone marrow trephine biopsies, or both were included in the study. The diagnosis and findings made on aspirates were compared with those made on trephine biopsies in each case. Results.—In those cases where both aspirate and trephine biopsy were available for evaluation, there was a 22% positive corr...