Why would I be referred to hematology oncology?
Why would someone be referred to a hematologist-oncologist? It’s most often because an abnormality was detected during a blood test. Blood is made up of four components: white blood cells, red blood cells, platelets and plasma, and each has a specific function: White blood cells fight infection.
Is oncology and hematology the same?
Oncologists specialize in oncology, or cancer, which may be blood-related, while a hematologist specializes in blood and lymph systems which can carry cancer. However, hematologists also deal with blood diseases that are not cancerous.
What does a hematology oncologist do?
Hematology-oncology refers to the combined medical practice of hematology (the study of the blood’s physiology) and oncology (the study of cancer). This type of medicine diagnoses and treats cancerous blood disorders and cancers, and manages symptoms of these diseases and resultant tumors (if present).
Does medical oncology include hematology?
Hematology: Blood Cancers and Other Blood Disorders A hematologist is board certified in both oncology and hematology. Hematologists focus on diagnosing, staging, treating and curing blood cancers and systemic diseases such as: Leukemia.
What are blood cancers called?
Most blood cancers, also called hematologic cancers, start in the bone marrow, which is where blood is produced. Blood cancers occur when abnormal blood cells start growing out of control, interrupting the function of normal blood cells, which fight off infection and produce new blood cells.
What happens at your first Hematology appointment?
During this appointment, you will receive a physical exam. The hematologist also will want you to describe your current symptoms and general health. Blood tests will be ordered and when the results are reviewed, the hematologist can begin to diagnose your particular blood disorder or disease.
What is the difference between an oncologist and a medical oncologist?
An oncologist may also be called a cancer specialist. The field of oncology has 3 major areas based on treatments: medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. Medical oncologists treat cancer using medication, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy.