Hematology

Hematology is the medical specialty that deals with diseases of the blood, bone marrow and lymphatic system, including problems with red cells, white cells, platelets and blood clotting. Hematologists diagnose and treat both benign and serious blood disorders, including some cancers like leukemia and lymphoma.

What they do: Hematologists investigate anaemia and unusual bleeding or clotting, interpret detailed blood and bone marrow tests, diagnose conditions like leukemia, lymphoma and other blood cancers, manage long-term treatment such as chemotherapy or targeted therapy, and coordinate transfusions and other supportive care.

Common conditions treated: different types of anaemia, low or high white blood cell counts, low platelets and bleeding disorders, deep vein thrombosis and other abnormal clotting problems, leukemia, lymphoma and multiple myeloma, inherited blood disorders such as thalassemia and sickle cell disease, bone marrow failure and related conditions

When to visit: when blood tests repeatedly show anaemia or abnormal blood counts, if you have frequent or unexplained bleeding, bruising or nosebleeds, when there is swelling of lymph nodes, unexplained fever, weight loss or night sweats, history of blood clots in the legs or lungs, known or suspected blood cancer, or inherited blood disorders in yourself or close family members

Treatment methods: detailed medical history and physical examination including lymph node and spleen check, advanced blood tests and bone marrow examination, planning and supervising blood transfusions and platelet transfusions, prescribing medicines including iron, vitamins, anticoagulants, chemotherapy and targeted therapies, organizing treatment such as hospital-based chemotherapy or day-care infusions, counselling on infection prevention, vaccination and lifestyle, coordinating care with oncologists, surgeons and transfusion services