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Questions for the doctor: diagnosis

On diagnosis day a lot of information arrives at once. Prepared questions help you not to forget what matters.

Last updated: ~1 min read
A question notebook for the diagnosis
Figure 1.A question notebook for the diagnosis

01Short answer

Key questions about the diagnosis: what exactly is the type and subtype of leukemia? Which genetic changes were found and what is the risk group? Which results are still pending? When should treatment start, and is it urgent? Can I have a copy of the results? Is a second opinion possible? Write these questions down, note the answers and bring someone close to the appointment.

02Simple explanation

The exact name of the diagnosis is the basis for every later decision.

You do not have to understand everything at the first visit.

03Scientific explanation

A complete diagnosis needs morphology, immunophenotype, cytogenetics and molecular results; some take days or weeks.

You can also ask about clinical trial options at the diagnosis stage.

04What happens in the body?

Type and genetics

“What is the full name of my leukemia?”, “What genetic changes are there?”, “What is my risk group and what does it mean?”

Next steps

“Which results are pending and when?”, “When should treatment start?”, “Where and whom should I call?”

A room for talking with the doctor
Figure 2.A room for talking with the doctor

Documents and opinions

“Can I have copies of all results?”, “Can I get a second opinion, and would it delay treatment?”

Results and genetics
Figure 3.Results and genetics

05Preparing for the visit

Four steps.

Write questions — The most important first.1Write questionsThe most important first.
Bring someone — A second pair of ears helps.2Bring someoneA second pair of ears helps.
Ask and take notes — Write down the answers.3Ask and take notesWrite down the answers.
Get copies — All results.4Get copiesAll results.
ClarityUnderstanding the diagnosis reduces fear.
ConfidencePrepared questions help guide the conversation.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
Type and genetics“What is the full name of my leukemia?”, “What genetic changes are there?”, “What is my risk group and what does it mean?”
Next steps“Which results are pending and when?”, “When should treatment start?”, “Where and whom should I call?”
Documents and opinions“Can I have copies of all results?”, “Can I get a second opinion, and would it delay treatment?”

07Key terms

Subtype
A precise diagnosis based on a genetic change.
Risk group
A grouping used for outlook.
Second opinion
Another specialist’s view.

08Key points

  • Ask for the full name of the diagnosis.
  • Ask about genetics and risk group.
  • Get copies of results.
  • You have the right to a second opinion.

09Frequently asked questions

What if the doctor is in a hurry?

Ask your top three questions first and ask about the next visit or how to get in touch.

Can I record the conversation?

Ask permission; many doctors agree.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. What if the doctor is in a hurry?

  2. Can I record the conversation?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Questions to Ask Your Doctor about Your Diagnosis
  2. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Leukemia—Patient Version
  3. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Managing Your Care
  4. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Chemotherapy to Treat Cancer
  5. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Questions to Ask about Cancer Treatment
  6. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Hair Loss (Alopecia) and Cancer Treatment
  7. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: remission
  8. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Follow-Up Medical Care
  9. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Feelings and Cancer
  10. National Cancer Institute (NCI). NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: blast
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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