BONE MARROW EXAMINATION AT A PAEDIATRIC HOSPITAL IN KENYA

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the main indications for, and com mon conditions found in bone
marrow examinations (BME) of children.
Methods: This was a retrospective study from September 1, 1993 to September 3 1998. All
bone marrow aspirate and trephine biopsy results were retrir ved. The clinical data provided
by clinicians were also noted.
Results: A total of 97 BME were recorded from patients agc d two months to 13 years. The
peak ages for BME were six to eight years (247~ of patients). The more frequent indications
for BME were unexplained anaemia found in 26% request forms, investigation for solid
tumours (10 70) and lymphoma (1070) and remission assessment after treatment for leukaemia
(26%). The main findings were malignancy (27%) with leukaemia being commonest (ALL)
16% of patients and acute myeloblastic leukaemia (5%). Haematinic deficiency was seen in
12.7% of cases with iron deficiency being the commonl:st. There were some notable
differences and similarities in the study as compared to a s milar one performed at a local
referral hospital.
Conclusion: The importance of BME as a crucial investigat onal tool in the management of
patients is underscored. Interpretation is more meaningf ll when the haematologist has
adequate clinical data.