Diagnosing pediatric leukemia typically involves several steps:
- Physical Examination: A doctor will check for signs of leukemia, such as swollen lymph nodes, liver, or spleen.
- Blood Tests: Including a complete blood count (CBC) to measure the number of red and white blood cells and platelets.
- Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy: To confirm the diagnosis and identify the type of leukemia by examining bone marrow samples.
- Genetic Tests: To look for specific genetic changes associated with different types of leukemia.
- Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap): To check if leukemia cells have spread to the cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Early and accurate diagnosis is essential for determining the appropriate treatment plan.