What tests can be done to diagnose leukemia?
Diagnosis of Leukemia
Leukemia can be diagnosed through blood tests, bone marrow aspiration, immunological tests, and other methods. Leukemia is a malignant clonal disease of hematopoietic stem cells. Here's a breakdown of the diagnostic procedures:
Blood Tests
1. Complete Blood Count (CBC): A CBC can reveal anemia, decreased white blood cell count, and an increased proportion of lymphocytes in patients.
2. B-mode Ultrasound: During a B-ultrasound examination, spleen enlargement and abnormal liver function can be observed.
Bone Marrow Aspiration
Bone marrow aspiration is a crucial diagnostic tool for leukemia. It allows for the observation of whether the proportion of blast cells in the bone marrow exceeds 30%.
Immunological Tests
If a patient's white blood cell count is significantly elevated, further immunological tests are necessary, including flow cytometry and Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) technology to detect gene mutations or chromosomal abnormalities.
Other Tests
In addition to the aforementioned common tests, chemiluminescence and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) can also aid in confirming the diagnosis.
Lifestyle Recommendations
Patients are advised to maintain healthy lifestyle habits, avoiding late-night activities to prevent immune system decline and hinder recovery. A balanced diet rich in nutrients and low in spicy, irritating, and greasy foods is essential. In case of significant discomfort, prompt medical attention is crucial to avoid complications.