If you have symptoms of acute leukaemia, or if you have a test for another reason and it suggests acute leukaemia, your general practitioner (GP) will do a physical examination, organise further tests and may refer you to a specialist called a haematologist.
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Overview
A combination of blood and bone marrow tests will help your doctor confirm the diagnosis and work out the subtype of AML you have. You may have other tests to find out more about the AML, your general health and how well your organs are working.
After an AML diagnosis, you are likely to see a range of health professionals, who will all play a part in your treatment.
Many people feel understandably shocked and upset when told they have ALL. If you need support, call Cancer Council 13 11 20.
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More resources
Dr Jonathan Sillar, Haematologist, Calvary Mater Newcastle Hospital; Dr Scott Dunkley, Haematologist, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and Chris O’Brien Lifehouse; Sharon Frazer, Consumer; Dr Robin Gasiorowski, Staff Specialist, Haematology, Concord Hospital; Prof Angela Hong, Radiation Oncologist, Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, and Clinical Professor, The University of Sydney; Yvonne King, 13 11 20 Consultant, Cancer Council NSW; Heather Mackay, Clinical Nurse Consultant – Haematology, Westmead Hospital; Katelin Mayer, Clinical Nurse Consultant, Cancer Outreach Team, Nelune Comprehensive Cancer Centre.
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