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
- Red blood cells carry oxygen from the lungs to the heart, organs and tissues
- Platelets make blood clots and prevent unnecessary bleeding
- Plasma is the fluid that carries waste products from the blood to the liver and kidneys
When people have many or not enough of any of the above components, an abnormal blood test result will occur. A hematologist will conduct more tests to determine the cause of the blood abnormality and how to treat it.
What is a hematologist-oncologist?
A hematologist-oncologist is a physician trained in hematology (the study of blood) and oncology (the study of cancer). He or she specializes in the diagnosis, treatment and/or prevention of disorders and cancers that affect the blood, bone marrow and the immunologic, hemostatic (controls bleeding) and vascular systems, such as:
- Iron-deficiency anemia
- Hemophilia
- Sickle-cell disease
- Leukemia
- Lymphoma
What do hematologists-oncologists do?
These physicians specialize in treating blood cancers, such as Hodgkins and non-Hodgkins lymphomas, leukemias and multiple myelomas. A hematologist-oncologist may also specialize in the management of solid tumors. In most cases, however, hematologists-oncologist don’t treat operable cancers like prostate cancer.
Advanced hematology-oncology is here for every Chicagoan
Should you or a loved one be diagnosed with a blood disorder or blood cancer, know that state-of-the-art care is at hand. Alpha Med Physicians Group is right here, providing dedicated and comprehensive hematology in Greater Chicago. Our hematologist-oncologists work closely with a cancer care team devoted to you, which can include radiation-oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, pathologists and other specialists in areas such as infectious disease, pain medicine/management and psychology.
To learn more or schedule an appointment, call 708-342-1900 or click here to use our online form.