Diagnostics and laboratory

Medical hematology in Denver

Our laboratory team works to diagnose diseases, identify symptoms and provide medical intervention.

At Colorado Blood Cancer Institute, we believe every effective treatment plan begins with diagnostic testing. As blood cancer affects people in different ways, we offer bone marrow tests, biopsies and blood tests to give you a clear diagnosis.

Diagnostic testing and laboratory services we provide

When determining the extent of a potential blood cancer diagnosis, we use various tests to evaluate your heart, lung, liver, and kidney function.

Tests and biopsies we perform for blood cancer

Laboratory testing is not only beneficial for confirming or discovering potential medical issues, as well as determining the viability of a stem cell transplant, but also for examining effects of previous treatments. In situations where a bone marrow biopsy may be needed, we are able to see if there has been any damage to your bone marrow from previous chemotherapy.

Our full range of services includes:

• Blood work
• Bone marrow biopsies
• Electrocardiograms (ECG or EKG)
• Pulmonary function tests
• Urine tests
  

Pre-transplant diagnostics and laboratory testing

Pre-transplant testing is done to determine both your disease response and the safety of receiving a transplant.

In order to perform all necessary blood tests, 10 to 15 tubes of blood will be taken. Although this may look sizeable, your body will replace it within 24 to 48 hours. Once all the required tests and pre-transplant assessments have been performed, the transplant team will determine whether a transplant is a safe option for you.

Restaging after chemotherapy

After completing standard chemotherapy, we will re-evaluate your condition to determine its effects on your cancer and overall organ function. Known as re-staging, this evaluation involves blood tests, EKGs, pulmonary function tests and biopsies, in addition to advanced imaging scans.

What to expect from a bone marrow biopsy

Bone marrow biopsies are typically painless. The biopsy is performed by a nurse practitioner or transplant physician, who will also explain all details and answer any questions.

During the procedure, bone marrow is taken from the upper backside of your hip, called the posterior iliac crest. After this is done, you may feel slight soreness. Pain medication and icing will help relieve this discomfort. We also recommend you have someone drive you to and from this procedure.