Diagnosis:

If you are experiencing symptoms of leukemia, your condition may be diagnosed by performing the following tests:

Physical Examination:

In the initial inspection, your doctor would check and see if there is an enlargement of the lymph nodes in the neck, armpits or in the groin region. your liver and spleen may also be examined to see if there is any swelling there as well.

Complete Blood Count Test:

A complete blood count test may be done to determine the levels of white blood cells and platelets which in turn would help determine if you might have leukemia.

Bone Marroe Biopsy Or Aspiration:

In a bone marrow aspiration, a small quantity of the fluid and cells present inside the bone is taken with a needle and is examined. This test is done to detect the presence of leukemia cells. In a bone marrow biopsy, a little amount of bone is also taken  along with the marrow and is examined under a microscope. This test is also done to determine the existence of leukemia cells.

Cytogenetics:

A cytogenetic analysis test provides information on the organization of chromosomes and also helps determine changes in the arrangement of the chromosomes. By detecting the presence of the altered chromosome , the type of leukemia could be determined. For example, people affected by chronic myelogenous leukemia have the abnormal philadelphia chromosome.

X- Ray:

If you start coughing out blood or are experiencing breathing problems, an x-ray of your chest may be done to see if leukemia cells are present.

Apart from these tests a CT scan or a lumbar puncture may be done to determine the if leukemia has spread to other areas of the body or if it is present in the cerebrospinal fluid. An MRI scan may also be done to see if the brain has been affected by leukemia.

Next: Read About Leukemia Types