About Hematology

Hematology is the branch of medicine and pathology that focuses on the study, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases related to blood and blood-forming tissues (bone marrow, lymph nodes, and spleen).
Key Areas of Hematology:
1. Blood Cell Production (Hematopoiesis)
Study of how bone marrow produces:
Red Blood Cells (RBCs) – Carry oxygen (measured via hemoglobin, hematocrit).
White Blood Cells (WBCs) – Fight infections (neutrophils, lymphocytes, etc.).
Platelets – Essential for clotting.
2. Common Hematologic Tests
Complete Blood Count (CBC): Evaluates RBCs, WBCs, platelets, hemoglobin, and hematocrit.
Peripheral Blood Smear: Microscopic examination for abnormal cell shapes (e.g., sickle cells).
Coagulation Tests (PT, aPTT, INR): Assess bleeding/clotting disorders.
Bone Marrow Biopsy: Diagnoses leukemia, lymphoma, or anemia causes.
3. Major Hematologic Disorders
Anemias (Iron deficiency, sickle cell, thalassemia).
Leukemias & Lymphomas (Blood cancers).
Bleeding Disorders (Hemophilia, von Willebrand disease).
Thrombotic Disorders (Deep vein thrombosis, DIC).
4. Treatment Approaches
Blood Transfusions (RBCs, platelets, plasma).
Chemotherapy/Radiation (For blood cancers).
Anticoagulants (Warfarin, heparin for clots).
Stem Cell/Bone Marrow Transplant (For leukemia, aplastic anemia).
5. Automation in Hematology
Hematology analyzers (e.g., Sysmex®, Beckman Coulter®) provide rapid, accurate CBCs with differential counts.
Hematology is crucial for diagnosing blood disorders, managing cancers, and ensuring proper clotting/oxygen transport. Would you like details on a specific condition or test?