How AML is diagnosed

Usually you will see your GP. They will examine you and take a blood test. If the results of the test are abnormal, your GP will refer you to hospital for advice and treatment from a doctor who specialises in the treatment of blood problems (a haematologist).

At the hospital Back to top

Most people with AML are referred for treatment at a haematology unit, where a group of specialist doctors work together. This is known as a multidisciplinary team and normally includes:

• one or more haematologists
• a clinical oncologist (a doctor who specialises in radiotherapy and chemotherapy)
• specialist nurses who give information and support
• pathologists who advise on the type and extent of the leukaemia.

Other staff will be available to help you if necessary, such as:

• social workers
• dietitians
• counsellors and psychologists
• physiotherapists.

The doctor at the hospital will ask you questions about your health and about any previous illnesses you have had. They will also examine you to find out how you are physically. You will have a blood sample taken to check the numbers of all the different types of blood cell in your blood (a full blood count).

If the blood test shows that leukaemia cells are present, your doctor will want to take a sample of your bone marrow. This is an important test for finding out about the leukaemia. It gives the doctors information to help them plan the best treatment for you.

Bone marrow sample/biopsy Back to top

A small sample of bone marrow is usually taken from the back of your hipbone (pelvis). The sample is looked at under a microscope by a pathologist, who will identify the type of leukaemia. They will also count the number of immature blood cells (blasts) in the sample. Other tests will also be carried out on the bone marrow sample to help confirm the diagnosis.

The bone marrow sample is taken under a local anaesthetic. You will be given a small injection to numb the area and the doctor will gently pass a needle through the skin into the bone. The doctor will draw a small sample of liquid marrow into a syringe to be looked at later under the microscope (bone marrow aspirate). The doctor will then take a small core of marrow from the bone (a trephine biopsy).

 

The test can be done on the ward or in the outpatients department. The whole procedure takes about 15-20 minutes. It may be uncomfortable as the marrow is drawn into the syringe but this should only last for a few seconds. You may be offered a short-acting sedative to reduce any pain or discomfort during the test. You may feel bruised after the test and have an ache for a few days. This can be eased with mild painkillers.

Other tests Back to top

Your doctor may arrange for you to have other tests to check that your lungs, heart, liver and kidneys are healthy.