Imaging Techniques
Imaging techniques are not common in diagnosing leukemia because most forms of blood cancer do not cause swelling or tumors. Nevertheless, it would help stage some forms of blood cancer, especially chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Some options include:
– CT scan: This technique generates a 3D picture of the body with a series of X-rays.
– X-rays can be used for bones or chest to detect swelling in the osteopenia or lymph nodes.
– PET scans can detect some cases of chronic leukemia.
– MRI produces a picture of organs inside the body using magnets. It can help diagnose leukemia in the spinal cord or brain. [5]
