How are aplastic anemia and MDS diagnosed?
In addition to a medical history and physical exam, doctors use blood tests and a bone marrow biopsy to diagnose aplastic anemia or MDS. • Blood tests. A complete blood count is usually the first test a doctor uses to detect aplastic anemia or MDS. This test measures the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in the blood. It also looks at the amount of hemoglobin in the red blood cells. Lower-than-normal quantities of one or more blood cell types may suggest aplastic anemia or MDS. In another test called a peripheral blood smear, the doctor examines a sample of blood for unusual changes in the size, shape, and appearance of the blood cells. These cells usually appear normal in aplastic anemia but may be abnormal in MDS. • Biopsy. A bone marrow biopsy is needed to confirm the diagnosis of aplastic anemia or MDS. This test usually involves removing a small sample of bone marrow by inserting a needle into the hip bone. A doctor then examines the bone marrow for the n
