The signs and symptoms of leukemia are different for each individual. However, there are common characteristics of this cancer. The first thing that you should do if you notice these symptoms is to consult your doctor. Your doctor will perform a physical exam, order blood tests, imaging studies, and a bone marrow biopsy to determine the exact cause of the condition.
Typically, these symptoms occur in children, but adults with leukemia can also experience them. Children may become pale or seem swollen. Their breathing will speed up to make up for the loss of blood oxygen carrying capacity. They might also develop small red spots on their skin. The redness is caused by bleeding from a vein or small blood vessel. Several types of leukemia have different symptoms, but most of these symptoms occur in the childhood stage.
The diagnosis of leukemia involves blood and bone marrow tests. These tests include DNA and chromosome analysis. An X-ray or ultrasound uses a small amount of radiation to create images and is used to diagnose leukemia. Lymph node biopsy is also used to determine the presence of cancer cells. These symptoms can also indicate a diagnosis of the disease. And, although there are no specific treatments for leukemia, the disease does have some symptoms that you need to be aware of.
If you have been diagnosed with leukemia, your doctor will need to perform a lumbar puncture. This procedure involves inserting a special needle into your lower back. The purpose of this procedure is to examine the spinal cord and brain for cancer cells. Then, he or she will check the spinal fluid. Then, he or she will order an MRI to determine if there is a problem with the brain.
X-rays and CT and MRI scans will be needed to determine the type of leukemia. If you have a diagnosis of leukemia, a blood count and a spinal fluid examination will be needed. A biopsy will also help your doctor find out the specific type of cancer in your body. A lumbar puncture will help your doctor determine the type of leukemia you have.
Your doctor may also perform a lumbar puncture. This procedure involves inserting a special needle into your lower back to look for any cancer cells in the brain and spinal cord. Your doctor may also order a blood test called a lumbar puncture. This test will also check the cerebral spinal fluid. If your child has these symptoms, they should be examined by a specialist. If it has spread to the bones, the leukemia patient should see a medical professional as soon as possible.
Other Leukemia Cancer Symptoms: Children with leukemia may look pale and tired, and may breathe rapidly in order to compensate for the decreased oxygen-carrying capacity of their blood. They may also experience changes in their mental status, and may have seizures. If leukemia has spread to the lymph nodes, a patient will experience frequent infections and have trouble getting rid of them. Further, your doctor may notice that you have a fever, or that you have a high body temperature.
In addition to these symptoms, your doctor may also run a physical examination. Your doctor will check for swollen lymph nodes, which are located in the lower back. The spleen and liver are often covered by the lower ribs, so a physical examination is not necessary. A lump under the skin may indicate that ALL has spread. Your doctor may also order imaging tests to look for signs of leukemia.
