Diagnosis

There are few signs of chronic or acute leukemia.

One sign is bruising or bleeding easily, which can indicate a platelet deficiency. Paleness and fatigue may signify anemia. Minor infections or cuts that don’t heal well can signify a low white blood cell count

These symptoms are not specific to leukemia, so it is important to see a doctor for a full medical evaluation, even a second opinion.

Your physician can rule out other conditions by performing a full medical examination, feeling for swelling in the liver, spleen, groin, neck and lymph nodes under the arms. A sample of blood may also be required.

If your doctor determines that a blood disease may be present, additional tests will need to be performed to confirm the type and stage of the disease. The doctor may draw a sample of bone marrow through a needle or may remove a small piece of bone marrow using a larger needle. Other tests may include a spinal tap, x-rays and a lymph node biopsy.

Treatment options will be suggested following these tests.