Blood Cancer Tests 

Blood cancers occur when cells in the bone marrow and blood form in ways that aren't normal. These changed cells don't function as they should.

Types of blood cancers include:


Contact Us about Blood Tests

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center has more than 200 cancer experts and 70 locations in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Maryland, and western New York. And as one of the largest community cancer networks in the U.S., we're right in your backyard.

Find a UPMC Hillman Cancer Center doctor or location near you

Call the Mario Lemieux Center for Blood Cancers at 412-864-6600.


Diagnosing Blood Cancers

Diagnosing blood cancers can be complex because each type is unique.

Your doctor will use certain tests to learn:

  • Which cells are developing or functioning in ways that aren't normal.
  • Whether you have any changes in certain genes.
  • Whether cancer has spread to other places in your body.

Your doctor will talk with you about your medical history and any family history of cancer.

You'll also have a physical exam, where your doctor may:

  • Inspect your skin for changes such as bleeding, bruising, or swelling.
  • Touch certain parts of your body to see if there are lumps, nodules, or spots that are painful.
UPMC experts use blood and other lab tests to diagnose blood cancers. They also use these tests to see if your blood cancer has spread to other parts of your body.

Are There Routine Blood Cancer Screenings?

Doctors don't recommend routine screenings for people who don't have blood cancer symptoms.

See your PCP for routine check-ups and let them know about any changes in your health. If you have a family history of blood cancers, ask your doctor if you should have certain blood tests.

You should also let your doctor know if you have a history of:

  • Taking chemotherapy drugs.
  • Family members with inherited genetic syndromes or Down syndrome.
  • Radiation treatment for cancer or radiation exposure in the workplace.
  • Smoking.

Your doctor will consider your age, health history, and family history to decide if certain blood cancer tests are right for you.

When to See Your Doctor

Early detection is important in treating blood cancers.

Let your doctor know right away if you have any blood cancer symptoms such as:

  • Feeling tired or weak.
  • Fever or chills.
  • Sweating at night.
  • Unexplained weight loss.

Contact Us About Blood Cancer Tests

We offer advanced treatments for all blood cancers and resources to support you and those you love.

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center has more than 200 cancer experts and 70 locations in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Maryland, and western New York. And as one of the largest community cancer networks in the U.S., we're right in your backyard.

Find a UPMC Hillman Cancer Center doctor or location near you.