How common is easy bruising in leukaemia?

Leukaemia can affect the bone marrow, where blood cells are made. When there are too few platelets or they do not work normally, blood may leak more easily from small vessels after a minor knock. Bruises may appear without a remembered injury, become larger than expected, or occur alongside nosebleeds, bleeding gums, tiny red or purple spots, fatigue, fever, or repeated infections. These features need a clinical assessment, but they do not establish a diagnosis by themselves. Medicines, injuries, skin changes, liver problems, and other blood conditions can also contribute to easy bruising.

Arrange a medical appointment if bruising is new, unexplained, or becoming more frequent. Note when it started, where bruises occur, whether there was an injury, and any bleeding or general symptoms. Bring a list of medicines, supplements, and any family history of bleeding problems. A clinician may examine you and arrange blood tests, including a blood count and platelet level, to look for an explanation.

Seek urgent medical care for bleeding that will not stop, vomiting blood, black stools, blood in urine, a severe new headache, fainting, confusion, or rapidly spreading purple spots. Urgent assessment is also appropriate if unexplained bruising occurs with marked weakness, breathlessness, fever, or signs of infection. Avoid starting or stopping prescribed medicines without advice; tell the treating team about any bleeding.

Ask what your blood count shows, whether your platelet level could explain the bruising, and which other causes should be considered. You can also ask which symptoms should prompt same-day care and whether any current medicine or supplement may increase bleeding.