Haematology

A haematologist is a doctor who specialises in diseases affecting the blood.

Medical Conditions

Any abnormality of the blood, including the blood cells (red, white or platelets) and coagulation abnormalities.
Some examples include:

  • Anaemia
  • Thrombocytopaenia
  • Leukopaenia
  • Pancytopaenia
  • Polycythaemia
  • Thrombocytosis
  • Leukocytosis
  • Leukaemia
  • Lymphoma
  • Coagulopathies
  • Warfarinisation (Warfarin Therapy)
  • Haemophilia
  • Von Willebrands disease
  • Pro-Coagulant disorders

Specialty Areas of Interest

  • Haematological malignancy (cancers of the blood)
  • Coagulopathies and procoagulant conditions (problems with bleeding and blood clotting)

Book your health appointments online

Find and instantly book your next health appointment with Healthengine

Find health practitioners

Associated Tests

Procedures

  • Treatment depends on the condition.
  • It may involve medications, blood transfusion, chemotherapy or even bone marrow transplantation.

What to expect

History

Your haematologist will begin by asking about your current problem: your symptoms, their duration, severity, relieving and exacerbating factors; previous tests and treatments.
They will also ask about past medical problems, medications, allergies, social and family history.

Examination

Your haematologist will begin by looking generally. A great deal can be learned by simple observation of the nails, hands, skin, hair, eyes and mouth. They will then feel for lymph nodes (commonly known as glands) in your neck, armpits and groin. Next they are likely to feel you abdomen, specifically feeling for your liver, spleen and any enlarged lymph nodes that may be present.
After this they will need to order some investigations (tests) – usually blood tests.

Training and Qualifications

Links

* Hematology – American spelling for Haematology.

 

A: Use HealthEngine to find and book your next GP appointment. Click on the following locations to find a GP clinic in your state or territory.

 

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. If in doubt, HealthEngine recommends consulting with a registered health practitioner.

All content and media on the HealthEngine Blog is created and published online for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Never disregard the advice of a medical professional, or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this Website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the nearest hospital emergency department, or call the emergency services immediately.