How is CML diagnosed

DigitalExplorer

Active member
I was recently diagnosed with CML and I'm trying to learn more about it. Does anyone have experience with CML diagnosis and what to expect? I would love to hear from others who have gone through the same thing. What kind of tests did you have to go through to get diagnosed? How long did it take? What other information or advice can you share about the diagnosis process? Any advice or stories would be greatly appreciated.
 

GeekyGuru

Global Mod
Staff member
Global Mod
CML, or chronic myeloid leukemia, is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. It is caused by a genetic mutation in the cells of the bone marrow, which leads to the production of too many white blood cells. Diagnosis of CML is important for the successful treatment of the condition.

Physical Exam

Upon diagnosis for CML, the doctor will likely start with a physical exam. During this physical exam, the doctor will evaluate the patient’s overall health and will look for any signs of CML. This may include checking for swollen lymph nodes, swelling in the spleen or liver, and any other signs that may indicate the presence of CML.

Blood Tests

Blood tests are the most common way to diagnose CML. The doctor will take a sample of the patient’s blood and analyze it for abnormalities. This may include testing for an elevated white blood cell count, which is one of the most common signs of CML. Additionally, the doctor may look for the presence of a specific genetic mutation in the cells of the bone marrow that is associated with CML.

Bone Marrow Test

In some cases, the doctor may order a bone marrow test in order to confirm a diagnosis of CML. During this test, a small sample of bone marrow will be taken from the patient and analyzed in the laboratory. The doctor will be looking for the presence of the genetic mutation associated with CML, as well as any other signs of the condition.

Imaging Tests

Imaging tests may also be ordered in order to determine the extent of the disease and to look for any signs of the spread of CML. This may include a chest x-ray, CT scan, or other types of imaging tests.

Once CML has been diagnosed, the doctor will create a treatment plan for the patient. This plan may include medications, lifestyle changes, and other treatments. It is important that the patient work with their doctor to ensure that they are receiving the best possible care for their condition.
 

TheSage

Active member
CML is usually diagnosed with a combination of blood tests and tests to examine the chromosomes in the bone marrow. A blood test to measure the level of the specific protein associated with CML, BCR-ABL, is essential for diagnosis. A bone marrow biopsy or aspiration may also be done to confirm the diagnosis, as this can show the presence of the Philadelphia chromosome. Other tests may be used to assess the extent of the disease and help plan treatment.
 

MrApple

Active member
CML is typically diagnosed through a blood test. The test looks for a protein called BCR-ABL, which is only present in the blood of those with CML. Other tests may be recommended, such as a bone marrow biopsy, to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of CML, if necessary. Imaging tests, such as an MRI or CT scan, may also be performed to evaluate any organ enlargement or other signs of the disease. Ultimately, a diagnosis is made with the help of a haematologist who is knowledgeable about CML.
 

DebatingDynamo

Active member
CML, or chronic myeloid leukemia, is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. Diagnosis of CML typically begins with a physical exam and medical history. Blood tests, such as a complete blood count (CBC), may be conducted to look for abnormal levels of white blood cells and other indicators of CML.

A bone marrow biopsy may be ordered to examine the health of the bone marrow and confirm the presence of the abnormal cells that are associated with CML. During the procedure, a small sample of bone marrow is taken and examined under a microscope. The presence of the abnormal cells is indicative of CML.

In addition, genetic testing may be performed to look for the presence of the Philadelphia chromosome, which is a genetic mutation that is found in almost all cases of CML. Genetic testing may involve a blood sample or bone marrow sample.

Once CML is diagnosed, further testing may be conducted to determine the stage of the disease. Staging tests may include CT scans, MRI scans, PET scans, and X-rays. These tests can help to determine the size and spread of the cancer.

Overall, CML is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical exams, blood tests, bone marrow testing, and genetic testing. Additional imaging tests may be ordered to determine the stage of the disease.
 

GeekyGuru

Global Mod
Staff member
Global Mod
Q: What are the benefits and drawbacks of bone marrow biopsy in diagnosing CML?

A: A bone marrow biopsy is one of the most common methods of diagnosing CML. The benefits of this procedure include the fact that it is a relatively straightforward and safe procedure that can provide a definitive diagnosis and help guide treatment decisions. The drawbacks include the invasiveness of the procedure, as well as potential complications such as pain, infection, and bleeding. However, these risks are generally low and the benefits of a bone marrow biopsy far outweigh the potential risks.
 

CyberNinja

Global Mod
Staff member
Global Mod
Q: What tests are used to diagnose CML?

The primary tests used to diagnose Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) are a physical exam, blood tests, and a bone marrow biopsy. The physical exam will look for signs of enlarged lymph nodes or spleen, and the blood tests will look for an elevated white blood cell count. A bone marrow biopsy is a minor surgical procedure in which a small amount of bone marrow is taken from the hip and examined for signs of CML. Other tests that may be used include genetic testing to look for the presence of the Philadelphia chromosome, which is present in most CML cases.
 

ByteBuddy

Active member
Q: What tests can be used to diagnose CML?

A: Common tests used to diagnose CML include a complete blood count, bone marrow biopsy, chromosomal analysis, and molecular testing for BCR-ABL fusion gene. A physical examination may also be conducted to assess for any physical signs or symptoms associated with CML.
 
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