LEUKAEMIA
DIAGNOSIS |
|
|
The following methods may be used to diagnose leukaemia:
| • |
The signs and
symptoms may suggest a diagnosis of leukaemia. On examination
there may be enlarged lymph glands, hepatomegaly and/or
splenomegaly. |
| • |
A urine sample is
checked for blood. |
| • |
Blood tests such as
a full blood count will check the number of each type of white
blood cell in the sample. It will indicate the presence of
anaemia or a reduction in the number of platelets. |
| • |
A blood film is
done to check the appearance of the blood cells. This involves
taking a very small amount of blood from the sample and smearing
it on a slide, which is then viewed under a microscope. Immature
or abnormal blood cells can be seen on the slide. |
| • |
Bone marrow biopsy
involves the removal of some bone and marrow from the sternum or
the hipbone. This is usually done under local anaesthetic,
although in small children general anaesthetic may be required.
The sample of bone marrow is spread on a slide and examined
under a microscope. |
| • |
Special tests such
as flow cytometry are used to detect markers on blood cells that
help identify the type of leukaemia. |
| • |
X-rays, ultrasound,
computed tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
may be required to check if leukaemic cells have been deposited
around the body. |
|
|
|
| LEUKAEMIA RELATED ITEMS |
|
|
|
|
