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 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 or hepatosplenomegaly .

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

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

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