Blood Sampling

Blood testing is routinely performed as part of an evaluation for leukemia as well as during treatment and follow-up care. Although they can give clues to the person's health condition, blood samples can not definitively diagnose acute lymphocyte leukemia.

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Preparing for a blood test usually requires abstaining from food and all beverages with the exception of water for nine to 12 hours prior to the blood draw. Check with your healthcare provider for detailed instructions. During the procedure, samples of peripheral blood are drawn from a vein, usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand using a thin, hollow needle.