What are the referral criteria for a patient with suspected leukaemia to a haematology specialist?

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Posted: 16 August 2025Updated: 16 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

Refer children and young people for immediate specialist assessment for leukaemia if they have unexplained petechiae, hepatosplenomegaly, or full blood count results suggestive of leukaemia .

Offer a very urgent full blood count (within 48 hours) to assess for leukaemia in children and young people with persistent fatigue, unexplained fever, unexplained persistent infection, pallor, or generalized lymphadenopathy .

In adults, refer for immediate specialist assessment if they have full blood count results suggestive of leukaemia .

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