What is Hematology?
Hematology is the study of the physiology and diseases of the blood in all its aspects and is a lab-based specialty within the medical field. Hematology is both a diagnosis and treatment-related specialty, giving healthcare providers the capability for both clinical and laboratory diagnostic skills. It is an important part of recognizing and treating blood disorders, as well as diagnosing and curing cancer.
What Does a Hematologist Do?
A hematologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating blood disorders. Hematologists are medically trained and certified physicians who have specific knowledge of the broad range of diseases and treatments involving hematology. While they can asses, diagnose, and treat blood-related disorders, it is not the only duty of a hematologist. They can also provide advice, answer questions, and order tests and blood work for patients.
Examples of Conditions Diagnosed by Hematologists
Hematologists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of blood disorders, such as:
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- Anemia
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- Sickle cell anemia
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- Leukemia
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- Lymphoma
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- Platelet disorders
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- Hemophilia and other bleeding disorders
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- Autoimmune diseases
Diagnostic Tests
A hematologist may use a variety of diagnostic tests to evaluate a patient’s blood condition such as:
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- Blood Counts: A full blood count (FBC) is a routine test that is used to measure the number of red and white blood cells, as well as hemoglobin and platelet levels in a sample of blood.
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- Flow Cytometry: This test is used to examine various features of the blood cells and is used to diagnose and treat certain blood disorders.
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- Blood Smears: This test is used to look at red blood cells under a microscope to diagnose blood diseases
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- Bone Marrow Biopsies: This is an invasive procedure used to examine the bone marrow for signs of disease.
Hematologists can also use imaging tests such as X-ray, CT scans and MRIs to get a better look at the patient’s health.
Summary
Hematology is an important specialty within the medical field, offering healthcare providers the ability to diagnose, treat and prevent a wide range of blood disorders. A Hematologist is a medical doctor who is specifically trained in the diagnosis and treatment of blood disorders. They use a variety of diagnostic tests to evaluate a patient’s blood condition and provide treatment accordingly.
