Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL): Diagnosis

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL):

Diagnosis

There are many different tests that examine the blood and bone marrow and are used to diagnosis ALL. I will further explore these below:

Physical exam- this is usually the first step in the diagnosis of ALL. Signs of lumps or any abnormalities are being looked for during this exam. Additionally, signs of bleeding or bruising and liver and spleen will be felt for enlargement.

Complete Blood Count (CBC)- this is a very simple procedure where a small amount of blood is drawn from the patient. The blood test is looking at the number of red blood cells, platelets, white blood cells, and hemoglobin. Many patients with ALL have a large quantity of immature white blood cells and not enough red blood cells and platelets. If these things are noted, a bone marrow biopsy is needed to confirm the diagnosis of ALL.

Bone marrow biopsy- this test involves the removal of bone marrow and a small piece of bone by inserting a hollow needle into the hipbone. This test can be painful, but a numbing injection is given. The procedure requires the patient to remain very still. The sample taken is examined under a microscope for signs of cancer. In looking at the specimen the doctor is noting the size, shape, and trait of the white blood cells.

Lumbar puncture- this procedure collects a sample of cerebral spinal fluid from the cerebral column. A needle is inserted into the spinal column. The fluid extracted is examined for signs of cancer.

Below is a fabulous video outlining the diagnosis techniques I have discussed above!

Works Cited:

Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Treatment (PDQ®). (n.d.). Retrieved April 10, 2015, from http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/treatment/childALL/Patient/page1

Leukemia diagnosis. (n.d.). Retrieved April 10, 2015, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hTzI6x4fmGI

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)