Diagnosis of CML

A variety of tests are likely to be used to diagnose CML, starting with a physical exam of the body and a review of the medical history. A physical exam could reveal an enlarged spleen, which could be a sign of CML. Other tests include: ¹

• Complete blood tests: A sample of blood is taken from a vein in the arm and studied to get a complete blood count (CBC, or sometimes called a full blood count, FBC). This shows the portion of the blood made up of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets and the amount of hemoglobin (the protein that carries oxygen) in the red blood cells. This type of blood test is used to check for many different diseases and conditions.
• Blood chemistry tests: The blood sample is tested to measure the amount of certain substances released into the blood by organs and tissues. If the amounts are unusually high or low, this can be a sign of a problem in the organ that normally produces the substance.
• Cytogenetic analysis: Samples of blood or bone marrow are viewed under a microscope or have the DNA analyzed to look for changes to the chromosomes, particularly the Philadelphia chromosome ² which is present in 95% of CML cases. ³
• Bone marrow aspiration or biopsy: In this test, the skin is numbed and a long needle inserted to withdraw blood, bone marrow and bone which is then examined under a microscope to look for abnormal cells. It is usually done on a hip bone. ⁴
• X-rays and ultrasounds: X-ray or ultrasound images of certain organs might be taken to check for other possible causes of symptoms or to check for signs of CML such as an enlarged spleen. ⁵

Getting tests done and then getting results can take time. The anxiety of waiting for the results can be difficult. It’s useful to recognize that this is likely to be a tough time, and seek support of family and friends, or other groups, to help you through it.