Hematologist-Oncologist Questions Bruises

Can unexplained bruising be a sign of leukemia?

My daughter has inexplicable bruises on her arms and legs. Like they are banged up, but she doesn't hurt herself enough to cause them. Can these bruises be a sign of leukemia?

3 Answers

It would be highly unlikely that bruising alone would be a sign of leukemia. Active young people can bruise without knowing the trauma that caused it. Should this problem continue I would take her to her physician for an evaluation.
There are many possible causes of easy bruising, most of which are benign. Leukemia would be a rare cause, but more common causes include use of aspirin, fish oil supplements, or benign disorders that increase bleeding propensity. A thorough hematology evaluation would help determine the cause of bruising and whether any treatment is needed.
She needs a blood test and coagulation test to find the cause to be treated. Continue follow up with her doctor.