HOW IS CML DIAGNOSED?
Possible signs of adult CML, which usually develop gradually, include tiring easily and shortness of breath when physically active. Most patients feel a loss of well-being or have a pale complexion from anemia. Discomfort on the left side of the abdomen from an enlarged spleen is frequently seen in patients with CML. Patients may also experience excessive sweating, night sweats, fever, weight loss, and intolerance for warm temperatures. The disease is often discovered during a routine physical examination. Doctors use tests that examine the blood and bone marrow to detect and diagnose adult CML, including: • Physical examination and history • Complete blood count • Number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets • Amount of hemoglobin (protein that carries oxygen) in the red blood cells • Portion of the sample made up of red blood cells • Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy (looking for abnormal cells) • Cytogenetic analysis to analyze the number and shape of the chromosomes
CML is generally considered in patients with an elevation in blood granulocyte concentration if the explanations of infection and inflammation aren’t likely. The differential diagnosis includes the other myeloproliferative disorders, myelofibrosis, polycythemia vera, other causes of leukocytosis (inflammation or infection). The presence of enlarged spleen, the characteristic blood picture, bone marrow aspirate, leukocyte alkaline phosphatase test and the presence of the Philadelphia (Ph) chromosome help in differentiation.
