Hematology

At El Portal Cancer Centers, we treat more than just cancer.


Hematology is a specialized branch of medicine that focuses on the study and treatment of disorders related to blood and blood components. Hematologists are professionals with extensive training specializing in diagnosing and managing conditions of the blood.

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Hematology

  • Diseases of the blood and blood components
  • Blood and bone marrow
  • Hematological tests

Complete Testing

Detection

Blood Disorders

Hematology is the branch of medicine concerned with the study of the cause, prognosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases related to blood. Hematologists specialize in diagnosing and managing conditions such as anemia, immunodeficiencies, thromboembolism (blood clots), leukemia, and bleeding disorders, including hereditary bleeding diseases. By analyzing blood and bone marrow cells hematologists can provide valuable insights into a patient’s overall health and develop personalized treatment plans. With their expertise, hematologists play a crucial role in maintaining the well-being of patients with hematological conditions by ensuring the proper functioning of their blood and addressing any related medical concerns.

Diseases: Anemia, leukemia, lymphoma, immunodeficiencies, thromboembolism (blood clots), leukemia, and bleeding disorders Tests: Blood film, bone marrow biopsy

Hematology Questions & Answers

Among the signs and symptoms of hematologic cancers and blood disorders are:
  • Bleeding or bruising easily.
  • Frequent infections.
  • Fatigue.
  • Fever.
  • Night sweats.
  • Unexplained weight loss.
  • Bone pain (in myeloma)
  • Painless swelling of lymph nodes (in lymphoma)

When evaluating patients, hematologists may perform a range of blood tests to assess and diagnose various blood-related conditions. Some of the most common blood tests include:

  • CBC (Complete Blood Count) measures red and white blood cell counts, hemoglobin levels, and platelet counts.  This is the most common of the blood tests.
  • PBS (Peripheral Blood Smear) allows a hematologist to examine the morphology and characteristics of blood cells and platelets under a microscope.
  • PTT (Prothrombin Time Test) measures how quickly your blood begins to clot and is used to assess clotting factors and detect bleeding disorders.
  • Reticulocyte Count measures the number of young red blood cells in your blood and is one tool doctors use to identify if a patient’s bone marrow is producing enough red blood cells.
  • Genetic Screening : identify risk factors for inherited blood disorders.

Take along a list of questions you would like to ask your hematologist that will help you better understand if you have a blood disorder.

Be prepared to answer questions: 

  • symptoms you have been experiencing,
  • medications you are currently taking, and
  • your family history of the disease.
Seeing a hematologist does not necessarily mean you have cancer. Hematologists are specialized doctors who diagnose and treat a wide range of blood disorders, including but not limited to non-cancerous conditions like anemia, bleeding disorders, clotting disorders, and immune system deficiencies. 
 
If your primary care physician refers you to a hematologist, it is to ensure a thorough evaluation of your blood-related health concerns. This which may or may not be related to cancer.

Have a question? Please call us. (209) 726-3410

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The information provided on this website is informational only and is not intended to be a substitute for a thorough discussion or diagnosis with your doctor. 

209-726-3410

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Monday-Friday: 9am to 5pm or by appointment
3303 M Street, Merced CA 95348

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