What is Hematology? Which Diseases Does It Cover?

Hematology is the branch of medicine that studies diseases of blood and blood-forming organs. Experts in this field; It explores in depth how cells in the blood, plasma and blood clotting mechanisms work. Hematology; It includes the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and bleeding disorders such as leukemia, lymphoma, hemophilia, as well as common blood diseases such as anemia and iron deficiency. It also deals with genetic or acquired disorders in blood production or functions. Diagnosis of hematological diseases requires advanced diagnostic methods such as blood tests and biopsies, and the treatment process requires a multidisciplinary approach.

What is Hematology?

Hematology, one of the most critical and complex branches of medicine, deals with the examination, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases related to blood and blood-forming organs. This field focuses on the functions of the components of blood: red blood cells (erythrocytes), white blood cells (leukocytes), platelets, and plasma, as well as the bone marrow, lymph nodes, spleen, and other blood-forming organs. Hematologists try to understand the origin and development of diseases by examining the abnormalities that occur in the production, maturation, function and destruction processes of these cells. This branch of medicine plays a central role in the diagnosis and treatment of many diseases. Commonly known hematological disorders are types of cancer such as leukemia and lymphoma, hemophilia and other clotting disorders, anemia, and various immune system diseases. In addition, diseases of genetic origin such as bone marrow failure, thalassemia and sickle cell anemia are also within the scope of hematology. These diseases are usually diagnosed through blood tests, biopsy, genetic tests and imaging methods.

Hematology also has a wide range of treatments. Treatment methods include blood transfusion, bone marrow transplant, chemotherapy, immunotherapy and targeted therapies. These treatment methods are personalized according to the type and stage of the disease and the patient’s general health condition. Hematologists monitor the progression of the disease. Evaluates the response to treatment and updates the treatment plan when necessary.

What Diseases Does Hematology Treat?

Diseases in this area; It may occur as a result of a combination of genetic, environmental and acquired factors. It can sometimes involve serious life-threatening situations. The main diseases that hematology specialists deal with can be listed as follows:

Leukemia

Leukemia is a type of cancer that occurs as a result of uncontrolled proliferation of cells in the bone marrow where blood cells are produced. LeukemiaIt is divided into two main categories: acute and chronic. It can affect both children and adults. While acute leukemias progress rapidly, chronic leukemias follow a slower course. Hematologists play a central role in the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of leukemia.

lymphoma

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that develops as a result of abnormal growth of cells (lymphocytes) in the lymphatic system. lymphomaIt is divided into two main types: Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin. This disease can affect the lymph nodes, spleen, bone marrow and other organs. Hematologists use biopsy and imaging methods in the diagnosis process of lymphoma. In its treatment, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapies are applied.

Anemia

Anemia is a condition in which the red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood are below normal levels. Anemia can be caused by many reasons, such as iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, chronic diseases or genetic disorders. The treatment approach varies depending on the type of anemia, and hematologists determine the underlying cause and create the appropriate treatment plan.

Hemophilia and Other Clotting Disorders

It is a genetic disease that prevents blood from clotting normally. This disorder is caused by missing or insufficient clotting factors. Even minor injuries can cause serious bleeding. Other clotting disorders include conditions such as Von Willebrand disease and thrombophilia. Hematologists play an important role in managing these diseases and improving patients’ quality of life.

Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS)

Myelodysplastic syndromes are a group of diseases that occur when the bone marrow fails to produce healthy blood cells. These syndromes can cause numerical and structural disorders in blood cells. It carries the risk of turning into leukemia over time. Treatment varies depending on the severity of the disease, and hematologists often consider treatment options such as chemotherapy, blood transfusion, or bone marrow transplant.

multiple myeloma

It is a type of cancer characterized by abnormal proliferation of plasma cells in the bone marrow. This disease can cause symptoms such as bone pain, bone fractures, anemia, kidney failure, and increased susceptibility to infections. Treatment usually includes chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapies and bone marrow transplantation.

Sickle Cell Anemia and Thalassemia

It is a genetic disease that causes blockages in blood circulation and painful attacks due to the sickle-shaped shape of red blood cells. Thalassemia is a disease that causes anemia due to genetic defects in hemoglobin production. Treatment for these diseases usually includes blood transfusions, medication, and in some cases, bone marrow transplants.

Thrombocytopenia and Other Platelet Disorders

It is a condition in which the number of platelets in the blood is lower than normal. This may result in an increased tendency towards bleeding. Platelet disorders can lead to problems with the blood clotting process and, in some cases, can be triggered by the immune system, infections, or medications. Hematologists generally apply medication, blood product transfusion and, when necessary, surgical intervention in the treatment of these conditions.

What Diseases Does the Pediatric Hematology Department Treat?

Pediatric Hematology department is the branch of medicine that diagnoses, treats and monitors diseases related to the blood and blood-forming organs of infants, children and adolescents. Hematologists working in this department specialize in the management of blood diseases seen in children. It creates treatment plans by taking into account the effects of these diseases on children’s growth and development.

One of the most common diseases that Pediatric Hematology deals with is leukemia. Pediatric hematologists aim to protect the long-term health of children by using methods such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy and stem cell transplantation in the treatment of leukemia. Another important group of diseases is lymphomas.

Also section; It also deals with rare types of hereditary anemia such as Fanconi anemia, diamond-blackfan anemia, and immune system diseases such as Langerhans cell histiokinesis. Since such rare diseases can cause serious health problems, they are usually treated with a multidisciplinary approach and genetic counseling may also be included in the process. Pediatric Hematology plays a critical role in the diagnosis and treatment of these and similar blood diseases in childhood. Experts provide early diagnosis of the disease, appropriate treatment methods and long-term follow-up for the healthy growth and development of children. Families are informed as an important part of the treatment process. This ensures that children receive the best care on their health journey.