Recent advances in bone marrow biopsy pathology

The second quarter of 2009 saw steady advances in bone marrow biopsy (BMB) pathology. The following publications are a personal selection of the highlights. Quality issues in diagnostic immunohistochemistry for BMB have largely been ignored in external quality assurance programmes, and this issue is highlighted. In other areas, publications reflecting advances in flow cytometry and aspirate morphology are discussed where translation to the BMB is possible. Classifications undergo constant change, and several publications address the redefinition of the cut off points between malignancy, benign, and normal. Lastly, current scientific research is presented where it is relevant to the understanding of BMB pathobiology.