Understanding Lab Tests for Leukemia
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow, where blood cells are produced. It occurs when the bone marrow produces abnormal white blood cells that cannot function properly and crowd out healthy blood cells. Blood tests are fundamental for diagnosing leukemia, determining its type, and monitoring treatment response.
Top Recommended Test
Complete Blood Count / CBC (includes Differential and Platelets)
This is the primary screening test for leukemia. It can detect abnormally high white blood cell counts, the presence of blast cells (immature white blood cells), and myelocytes in the blood, all of which are key indicators of different types of leukemia including myelogenous leukemia.
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How Blood Tests Diagnose Leukemia
Blood tests can reveal the hallmark signs of leukemia, including abnormally high or low white blood cell counts, the presence of immature blast cells, and specific cellular markers. These tests help healthcare providers not only diagnose the condition but also classify the type of leukemia, which is crucial for determining the most effective treatment approach.
Other Relevant Tests
White Blood Cell Count (WBC)
This test specifically measures white blood cell levels in the blood. Leukemia typically causes an abnormal increase in white blood cells as the bone marrow produces too many abnormal cells that cannot function properly.
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Specialized Leukemia Markers
Myeloperoxidase(13)
This test measures myeloperoxidase, a specific marker for myeloid cells. Its presence can be indicative of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), helping healthcare providers classify the specific type of leukemia and guide treatment decisions.
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Lymphocyte Subset Panel 4 (CD4:CD8 Ratio Profile)
This test analyzes different types of lymphocytes in the blood. Abnormally high levels of absolute lymphocytes may indicate lymphocytic leukemia, providing important information about the specific subtype affecting the patient.
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Lysozyme
Lysozyme levels can be elevated in people with leukemia, especially Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). The overproduction of abnormal white blood cells leads to excessive lysozyme production, making this a useful diagnostic marker.
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Supporting Laboratory Tests
Vitamin B12
High levels of vitamin B12 can be associated with leukemia, as the abnormal production of white blood cells can lead to increased vitamin B12 in the bloodstream. This test helps support the diagnosis and monitor disease progression.
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Rheumatoid Factor (RA)
While primarily used to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis, elevated rheumatoid factor levels can occasionally be seen in patients with leukemia, providing additional supportive evidence for diagnosis.
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Post COVID-19 Expanded Panel
This comprehensive panel includes white blood cell count analysis among other markers. High white blood cell counts detected in this panel can indicate leukemia and help differentiate between post-viral effects and blood cancer.
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Important Considerations
Early detection of leukemia through blood testing is crucial for successful treatment outcomes. If blood tests suggest leukemia, additional specialized tests and bone marrow analysis may be needed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the specific subtype. The information provided here is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment planning.
