Screening for Leukemia

The purpose of screening is early diagnosis and treatment. Screening tests are usually administered to people without current symptoms, but who may be at high risk for certain diseases or conditions.

There are no screening tests or screening guidelines for leukemia. However, your doctor may order blood counts during a routine physical examination. An examination of the blood, either for the presence of anemia or changes in white cells, is the basic diagnostic test for leukemia. Occasionally, these tests, done routinely, will result in the early diagnosis of leukemias, especially the chronic varieties.