Can a routine blood test detect leukemia?
Nov 14, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Feng
Introduction
In general, a routine blood test may suggest the possibility of leukemia, but it cannot directly confirm the diagnosis. Patients are advised to visit a正规 hospital for further evaluation to establish a definitive diagnosis. Confirming leukemia requires additional procedures such as bone marrow aspiration or biopsy, along with comprehensive testing including cytology, immunology, and genetics. Prior to the tests, patients should maintain a light diet to avoid affecting the test results.
In general, a routine blood test can suggest the possibility of leukemia, but it cannot directly confirm the diagnosis. Patients are advised to visit a正规 hospital for further evaluation to confirm the condition. The analysis is as follows:
A complete blood count (CBC) evaluates overall health by measuring the number, morphology, and proportions of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, as well as hemoglobin levels. In patients with leukemia, CBC results may show a significantly elevated or reduced white blood cell count, hemoglobin levels below the normal range, and decreased platelet counts. These abnormal indicators may prompt physicians to suspect leukemia. When white blood cell counts are abnormally high along with reduced hemoglobin and platelet levels, leukemia should be highly suspected.
However, a CBC alone cannot confirm a diagnosis of leukemia. A definitive diagnosis requires further procedures such as bone marrow aspiration or biopsy, along with comprehensive testing including cytology, immunology, and genetics. These tests provide detailed information about the type of leukemia, cellular characteristics, and genetic abnormalities, which are essential for guiding subsequent treatment decisions.
Prior to testing, patients should maintain a light diet and avoid spicy or stimulating foods to prevent interference with test results.
