CML Diagnosis

Diagnosis. Several tests may be administered by our physicians to detect and establish a chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) diagnosis. The patient will undergo a physical examination to determine overall health. Then a complete blood count (CBC) will be ordered to assess the chemical makeup of the blood, as well as the amount of hemoglobin (protein that carries oxygen) and number of red blood cells present. In addition, one or more of the following procedures may be prescribed:
Cytogenetic Analysis. Cells in a sample of blood or bone marrow are viewed under a microscope to look for changes in the structure or number of chromosomes, such as the Philadelphia chromosome—a definitive indicator of CML.

Blood Chemistry Studies. A blood sample is examined to measure the amounts of certain substances released into the blood by organs and tissues in the body. An unusual amount of a substance can be a sign of disease in the organ or tissue that produces it.

Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy. A small piece of bone and bone marrow are removed from the hipbone or breastbone through a needle. A pathologist views both the bone and bone marrow samples under a microscope to look for abnormal cells.

To schedule a consult with our team of oncologists, simply ask your primary care physician for a referral or make a self-referral by calling 1-877-LACKS-MI or 616-752-LACK(S).