Because leukemia shows no obvious symptoms in the early stages, the disease may be diagnosed during a regular physical examination or as a result of routine blood tests. If you have enlarged lymph nodes, swollen gums, an enlarged liver or spleen, significant bruising or a small pinpoint rash, your doctor may suspect leukemia. Many patients initially just feel overall severe fatigue or flu-like symptoms which linger and do not improve.
Leukemia Diagnostic Exams Available Through Saint Francis
If you have signs or symptoms that suggest leukemia, your doctor may perform the following diagnostic exams:
- Physical exam: Your doctor will look for physical signs of leukemia, such as pale skin from anemia and swelling of your lymph nodes, liver and spleen.
- Blood tests: Blood tests such as a complete blood count (CBC) can help your doctor determine if you have abnormal levels of white blood cells or platelets – which may suggest leukemia.
- Bone marrow test: Bone marrow test: During this test, a sample of bone marrow from your hipbone is removed using a long, thin needle. The sample is sent to a laboratory to look for leukemia cells.
- Lumbar puncture/spinal tap: Under an anesthetic, a small amount of spinal fluid is removed from the spaces between the vertebrae in the spine. The fluid is then examined by a pathologist.
Other procedures including CT scans, X-rays, MRI's and ultrasounds may also be used to diagnose leukemia.
Learn More About Leukemia
About Leukemia
Leukemia Prevention and Risk Factors
Leukemia Symptoms
Leukemia Treatment
Learn More About Common Types of Cancer
To learn more about different types of cancer, please review the links below. For additional Saint Francis Cancer Center information or to schedule a consultation with a cancer specialist, please call Saint Francis HealthLink at 918-488-6688.
Breast Cancer
Colon Cancer
Head and Neck Cancers
Hodgkin's Disease
Leukemia
Lung Cancer
Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
Prostate Cancer
Skin Cancer
Pediatric Cancers