Leukemia Charity

A complete blood count (CBC) test is the first level of diagnostic testing for leukaemia. For this test, a lab will analyse a sample blood and count the white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. A sample with a high level of white blood cells and low levels of red blood cells can indicate leukaemia.
Using flow cytometry, the doctor can examine the sample in a higher level of detail for a more accurate diagnosis.
If leukaemia is a possibility, the doctor may perform a bone marrow biopsy to confirm whether the cells have been affected. During a bone marrow biopsy, the doctor will insert a needle into the patient to obtain a sample of bone and bone marrow. A patient might require sedation for this test.
Other tests include spinal taps, where a doctor takes a sample of spinal fluid using a needle, and cytogenetics, which examines chromosomes in cells.
A doctor may perform a series of X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans in order to visually examine the bones and organs to check for tumor growth and other abnormalities