Lab and imaging tests

Doctors use several different lab and imaging tests to help detect and diagnose a blood cancer (leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma, myelodysplastic syndromes, or myeloproliferative disease). You may need to undergo additional tests to confirm your diagnosis.

Once your diagnosis is confirmed, your doctor may need to test you for certain genetic, cellular, or molecular characteristics that will help them treat a specific diagnosis.

How your doctor uses your lab and imaging test results

Your doctor considers these test results along with information from your physical examination and detailed medical history to:

• Confirm a blood cancer diagnosis, its specific subtype, and its stage
• Decide whether additional tests are needed
• Determine your risk and expected outcome (prognosis)
• Guide treatment decisions
• Monitor your condition if treatment isn't yet needed ("watch and wait")
• Measure your response to treatment during and after therapy
• Track your health during and after treatment

Common lab and imaging tests

The tests most commonly used to diagnose and monitor blood cancers include:

Your doctor may order additional tests if you have multiple medical conditions such as heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, or other illnesses (called comorbidities) that may affect your body's ability to fight infection.

It's common to feel some stress or anxiety about having a test or receiving results. Discuss any concerns you may have with your doctor and ask questions so you understand why a specific test is being ordered and what to expect.

You may have concerns or questions about:

• The test's safety
• Your comfort during and after the test
• Whether you need to do anything beforehand to prepare for the test, such as fast
• Whether you'll need someone to take you home after the test
• The time it will take to get your test results
• Whether you need to call for the results or if your doctor's office will call you
• When you'll be able to discuss the test results with your doctor

Many people are uncomfortable about having their blood drawn, getting injections, or being in an enclosed space (required for some imaging tests). Talk with your doctor about your concerns or mention them to the staff when you schedule your appointment. Parents often have to calm their child's fears about tests.