When doctors suspect you have a disorder related to your blood, you’ll likely be referred to a specialist. Hematology is the study of blood, blood disorders, and the organs fed by blood cells, including the lymph nodes and spleen. Hematologists are highly trained specialists focused on the prevention and treatment of this category of disorders. Here’s a closer look at this vital field of medicine.

What Does Hematology Study?

The field focuses on four specific areas:

• Hemoglobinpathology: the study of abnormalities in blood hemoglobin, such as sickle-cell anemia 
• Hematological malignancies: the study of cancer of the blood (such as leukemia), lymph nodes, and bone marrow
• Anemia: the condition in which red blood cells are unable to carry an adequate amount of oxygen throughout the body
• Coagulopathy: a focus on bleeding disorders and the blood’s ability to clot, such as hemophilia

Hematologists may work with patients with any type of blood disorder, although some opt to focus on one specific area of study. 

What Does a Hematologist Do?

In general, a hematologist provides direct patient care to people with blood disorders, particularly cancer. They order tests, analyze blood, and prescribe treatments in conjunction with other specialists, such as oncologists. Because of the close ties between hematology and oncology, some doctors are hematologist-oncologists, so they can treat a wide array of blood-related diseases. 

Much of this field is focused on blood testing and analysis. The most common tests are complete blood counts (CBC), which analyze platelets, red and white blood cells, hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, and red blood cell indices to diagnose a wide range of health conditions. Other common tests include those that determine the suitability of bone marrow donors, bone marrow aspirations and biopsies to determine whether cancer is present, and imaging tests to identify the presence of certain cancers.

Hematology is also the specialty responsible for performing bone marrow and stem cell transplants and managing blood transfusions.If you see a hematologist, they’ll also be a part of your care team, coordinating different types of care, including immunotherapy and chemotherapy. 

If you or a loved one needs compassionate, expert hematology or cancer care in Anchorage, turn to Alaska Oncology and Hematology, LLC. These dedicated healthcare providers offer a variety of treatment options and services and are dedicated to preserving your well-being in a respectful and open manner. Call (907) 279-3155 today to schedule an appointment and visit their website to learn more about their practice.