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United Kingdom: Diagnostics

In the United Kingdom, diagnosing leukaemia often starts with a full blood count (FBC) ordered by the GP.

Last updated: ~1 min read
On a dark navy background, sample tubes.
Figure 1.Laboratory — United Kingdom: Diagnostics

01Short answer

If the blood test shows suspicious changes, the GP writes an urgent referral to haematology or contacts the hospital directly; sometimes the patient is sent to hospital the same day. At the hospital, bone-marrow tests, flow cytometry and genetic tests are done. Results are explained by the consultant at a separate appointment, usually with the CNS present.

02Simple explanation

Blood test: first step.

Bone marrow: exact diagnosis.

Genetics: for the plan.

03Scientific explanation

Flow cytometry identifies cell surface markers.

Molecular tests find changes that affect treatment choice and outlook.

04What happens in the body?

Laboratory

Blood samples are checked in the hospital laboratory.

Bone marrow

The sample is studied under the microscope and with special tests.

On a dark navy background, cells on a slide.
Figure 2.Bone marrow — United Kingdom: Diagnostics

The talk

While hearing results, take notes and ask again.

On a dark navy background, two chairs and a folder.
Figure 3.Results talk — United Kingdom: Diagnostics

05Path to a diagnosis

Four steps.

Blood test — At the GP.1Blood testAt the GP.
Referral — Urgent.2ReferralUrgent.
Tests — In hospital.3TestsIn hospital.
The talk — Results.4The talkResults.
PrecisionThe type is known.
PlanNext steps are clear.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
LaboratoryBlood samples are checked in the hospital laboratory.
Bone marrowThe sample is studied under the microscope and with special tests.
The talkWhile hearing results, take notes and ask again.

07Key terms

FBC
Full blood count.
Bone marrow biopsy
Bone-marrow test.
Flow cytometry
Flow cytometry.
Urgent referral
Urgent referral.

08Key points

  • Ask for results in writing.
  • Bring someone close.
  • Write down questions.
  • Ask the name of the type.
  • Know your next appointment.

09Frequently asked questions

How long do results take?

Some tests take days, genetic tests longer; ask your team.

Can I see my results?

Many hospitals have an online patient portal.

Does the test hurt?

Local anaesthetic is used; tell your team about your worries.

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. How long do results take?

  2. Can I see my results?

  3. Does the test hurt?

My questions

12Sources

  1. Cancer Research UK. Leukaemia
  2. Blood Cancer UK. Official website
  3. NHS. GP services
  4. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Questions to Ask Your Doctor about Your Diagnosis
  5. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Bone marrow aspiration
  6. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Official website
  7. U.S. Department of Agriculture / HHS. Dietary Guidelines for Americans
  8. Nutrition.gov (USDA). Official website
  9. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Private drinking water wells
  10. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Ground water and drinking water
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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