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Hematology
UPDATED: May 29, 2003

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A hematologist is a doctor who deals with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the blood and hematopoietic organs. This specialist works with children and adults and applies both traditional and modern techniques in his practice. It can successfully detect even hidden pathologies that are not manifested by pronounced symptoms.

Hematologist: what treats?

These specialists provide therapies for the following conditions:

  • anemia. This pathology is characterized by a decrease in erythrocyte and hemoglobin counts. Anemia is not a separate disease! This is a symptom of mycosis, pyelonephritis, tuberculosis and other dangerous conditions. Usually it is accompanied by weakness, general malaise, disturbed appetite and sleep, shortness of breath even with moderate exertion, and poor concentration.
  • lymphocytic leukemia. This disease is malignant and is characterized by the proliferation of atypical B-lymphocytes that accumulate in the bone marrow, spleen, liver and lymph nodes. The predisposition to pathology is inherited, and its main symptoms include swollen lymph nodes, increased sweating, weakness and sudden weight loss. As lymphocytic leukemia develops, an enlargement of the spleen and liver, anemia, dizziness, spontaneous bleeding are revealed.
  • multiple myeloma. This pathology is malignant and is characterized by the ability of tumor cells to synthesize homogeneous immunoglobulins or their fragments. The tumor is formed mainly in the bone marrow, it can be focal, diffuse and focal-diffuse
  • myeloid leukemia. This form of leukemia is characterized by the rapid division of specific cells in the bone marrow and their accumulation in the blood. Usually it is diagnosed only during clinical analysis, since often the pathology does not manifest itself in any way. In some cases, patients complain of a slight increase in body temperature, decreased immunity and general malaise. It is also possible to detect anemia and enlargement of the spleen.
  • lymphomas. This pathology is characterized by an increase in lymph nodes. The primary tumor site usually metastases and spreads throughout the body. There are several forms of lymphoma that differ in symptoms and degree of malignancy.

Pediatric hematologist: who is it and what heals?

This specialist deals with the therapy and prevention of diseases that occur in both children and adults. Working with patients under 18 years of age, he takes into account all the peculiarities of their age and development.

These doctors are referred to if there are suspicions of various forms of anemia, thrombocytopenia (decreased platelet count), hemorrhagic vasculitis (inflammation of microvessels), hemophilia and other congenital hereditary disorders.

Important! If blood diseases are detected at an early age, the patient should be under medical supervision for as long as possible. It is very important not only to detect pathology, but also to control it. Only in this case can the correct growth and development of the child be ensured.

Help of a hematologist during pregnancy

A large number of blood diseases are inherited, for this reason it is very important to visit a doctor when planning a child and in the process of carrying a fetus. The specialist will ensure that the necessary genetic tests are carried out and determine the likelihood of developing abnormalities. An appeal to a hematologist is especially important if one or both future parents have pathologies.

In addition, it is very important for a pregnant woman to monitor all blood indicators, since the supply of oxygen and other nutrients to the fetus largely depends on them. A doctor's consultation is required for various deviations from the norm. It is especially important to seek medical attention quickly if iron deficiency anemia is suspected. This problem is one of the most common and needs to be corrected and monitored until the very birth.

When to see a hematologist?

A doctor's consultation is required for the following signs of various disorders:

  • swollen lymph nodes;
  • weakness and drowsiness;
  • an increase in body temperature (not against the background of colds and inflammation);
  • weight loss;
  • sleep disturbances;
  • excessive sweating;
  • pallor of the skin;
  • decreased appetite;
  • bruising on the body without objective reasons;
  • dizziness.

Help is required for patients who also complain of joint pain, itching, dryness of the integument, tingling and numbness of the fingers. Make an appointment with a hematologist if you have a hereditary predisposition to blood diseases and low hemoglobin, identified in the framework of general diagnostics. Both therapists and gastroenterologists, neurologists and other doctors can refer to the narrow specialist.

Preparation for consultation

No special preparation for the standard admission is required. Some restrictions are imposed only if the patient must first pass tests.

Before research, you must:

  • try to stop drinking and smoking for a few days;
  • limit fluid intake (per day);
  • refuse to eat (10-12 hours in advance);
  • exclude the use of drugs. If this is not possible, you should inform your doctor about what drugs are being taken, on what schedule and in what dosages. This will allow you to correctly assess the diagnostic results.;
  • blood tests to be taken before the consultation.

Before visiting a hematologist, you should pass the following tests:

  • general blood test with the determination of the number of reticulocytes ("young" erythrocytes). This test will reveal the rate of production of red blood cells in the bone marrow.
  • HIV, hepatitis and other infections.
  • ferritin. Such a study will determine the content in the blood of a protein that stores iron in cells.
  • rate of transferrin saturation. This test detects a protein that binds to iron and distributes it throughout the body.

The research results will allow the specialist to immediately diagnose and prescribe the necessary treatment. Other examinations will be recommended if necessary.

Stages of a hematologist consultation

Conversation

It aims to collect anamnesis. The patient is asked about the symptoms of the disease that have arisen. The doctor specifies the time of appearance of pathologies' signs, their intensity and other features. Also, the specialist finds out the hereditary predisposition to various diseases.

Examination

The doctor evaluates the condition of the skin and mucous membranes. During the examination, such signs of disturbances in the work of the hematopoietic system as pallor of the skin, rashes, hematomas, cyanosis (bluish color) can be detected.

Diagnosis or appointment of additional examinations

If the patient goes to the hematologist with the results of blood tests, the diagnosis can be made immediately. If research has not been carried out, the doctor refers to them. In some cases, not only laboratory, but also instrumental examinations are required. The doctor writes out referrals for them.

Diagnostics

Diseases of the blood are characterized by a variety of manifestations that are similar to other pathological conditions. Therefore, a wide range of examination techniques are used to identify them. The patient undergoes blood tests.

The following tests are also carried out:
  • urine tests;
  • coagulogram;
  • puncture of the lymph nodes;
  • scintigraphy;
  • CT and MRI (computed and magnetic resonance imaging);
  • flat bone radiography;
  • ultrasound of the abdominal organs and lymph nodes;
  • bone marrow puncture, etc.

Comprehensive diagnostics makes it possible to identify even hidden pathologies that have not yet manifested themselves.

Treatment

The scheme and program of therapy are developed depending on the individual characteristics of the patient, the general current state, the presence of concomitant diseases.

The main areas of treatment include:

  • antibacterial. It is required for patients who suffer from a general decrease in immunity and are more susceptible to various infections than others.
  • transfusion. Such therapy consists of transfusion of blood and its components.
  • supportive. It is aimed at eliminating the symptoms of the disease and improving the general well-being of the patient.
  • chemotherapy. It is prescribed for the purpose of disrupting the processes of growth and reproduction, as well as necrosis of malignant cells.
  • medication. Such treatment is carried out to replenish the deficiency of various elements, correct the work of the blood coagulation system and accelerate metabolic processes.
  • radiation therapy. It is prescribed in combination with other manipulations to fight oncological pathologies

 

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