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Diagnosis of leukemia usually begins with a blood test. A blood test can also help detect other possible cancers or diseases. This test will detect unusual levels of blood cells and could also reveal other cellular abnormalities. The complete blood count measures the amount of white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets in the blood. High levels of white blood cells may indicate lymphocytic leukemia. A doctor can also do a physical test on the patient's lymph nodes, liver or spleen to see if the cancer is in an advanced stage. Computerized tomography (CT) scan may also provide more information about the spread and development of the cancer. Other options include taking a bone marrow sample and a lumbar puncture test, or spinal tap.

Conventional treatment options for leukemia include surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. All three have been used effectively for years. Since cancer may develop when the body's immune system is not functioning optimally, biotherapy (immunotherapy), another treatment option, is designed to repair, stimulate, or enhance the body's immune responses. Other options like nutritional therapy, pain management, and naturopathic medicine, among others, are often used to supplement and enhance the conventional treatments.

To learn more, go to CancerCenter.com.

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