If you have symptoms of acute leukaemia, or if you have a test for another reason and it suggests acute leukaemia, your general practitioner (GP) will do a physical examination, organise further tests and may refer you to a specialist called a haematologist.
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Overview
The main tests to work out whether you have acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) are blood and bone marrow tests. You may have other tests such as a CT scan or ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis.
After an ALL diagnosis, you are likely to see a range of health professionals, who will all play a part in your treatment.
Many people feel understandably shocked and upset when told they have ALL. If you need support, call Cancer Council 13 11 20.
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More resources
Dr Jonathan Sillar, Haematologist, Calvary Mater Newcastle Hospital; Dr Scott Dunkley, Haematologist, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and Chris O’Brien Lifehouse; Sharon Frazer, Consumer; Dr Robin Gasiorowski, Staff Specialist, Haematology, Concord Hospital; Prof Angela Hong, Radiation Oncologist, Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, and Clinical Professor, The University of Sydney; Yvonne King, 13 11 20 Consultant, Cancer Council NSW; Heather Mackay, Clinical Nurse Consultant – Haematology, Westmead Hospital; Katelin Mayer, Clinical Nurse Consultant, Cancer Outreach Team, Nelune Comprehensive Cancer Centre.
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