Bone marrow is essential for creating blood cells and maintaining vital body functions, according to a July 24 article from Ohio State Health and Discovery.
Bone marrow, found as a liquid inside all bones, acts as the body's "blood cell factory." It produces stem cells that develop into red blood cells, white blood cells—including neutrophils and lymphocytes—and platelets. Red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body, white blood cells fight infections such as bacteria and viruses, and platelets help prevent excessive bleeding by enabling clotting. Healthy bone marrow helps prevent severe anemia, supports immunity, and reduces bleeding risk.
As people age, their bone marrow produces fewer new cells. The percentage of active cell-producing ("red") marrow decreases with age while fat-filled ("yellow") marrow increases. For example, someone who is 40 years old typically has about 60% red marrow. Bone marrow disorders can result from both cancerous conditions—such as leukemias or lymphomas—and non-cancerous causes like inherited or acquired bone marrow failure syndromes. Symptoms may include frequent infections or viruses, fatigue or dizziness, unexplained bruising or bleeding gums, nosebleeds, or tiny spots on the skin.
Diagnosis often begins with abnormal blood counts followed by a bone marrow biopsy from the hip bone for confirmation. In some cases, genetic mutations can be identified through blood testing alone. Treatment depends on the cause but may involve addressing infections or medications that trigger symptoms; other options include transfusions; immune-suppressing therapy; chemotherapy; immunotherapy; targeted therapy; or stem cell transplants. Modern transplants generally use donor stem cells collected via a blood draw rather than direct extraction from bone.
Transplantation may be considered when there is irreversible bone marrow failure or certain types of cancer require it for cure. Early discussion of transplant options after diagnosis allows time to consider donor availability—including unrelated donors and older individuals due to advances in collection methods.
Many bone marrow disorders cannot be fully prevented but risk factors include radiation exposure and some medications. A balanced diet supports normal production of healthy blood cells since deficiencies in iron, folate or B12 can mimic symptoms of these disorders.
Ohio State Health and Discovery addresses societal issues such as health equity and substance use to promote inclusive well-being through its hospitals and outpatient facilities at its academic medical center. The organization seeks to advance health locally and globally through innovations in research, education, patient care and community involvement while offering resources on wellness topics including research advances and community initiatives focused on healthcare improvement, according to the official website.
