Hematology
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Hematology is the study of blood and the bone marrow where blood is made. Red blood cells carry oxygen from the lungs throughout the body. White blood cells fight infection. Blood diseases happen when these cells aren't working properly. A hematologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the blood, like anemia, blood clots, bleeding disorders, and leukemia.
For many years, doctors have known about genetic diseases that affect the blood, like sickle cell anemia, thalassemia, and hemophilia. More recent genetic discoveries have led to a better understanding of more common blood problems, like clotting. Genetic testing may also help doctors choose the right drugs and the right amount of drugs to treat people with blood diseases.
Below are some of the most common genetic tests used in hematology. There are many others. If you have a blood disease or one seems to be running in your family and you are wondering if genetic testing could help, you may find some answers in these articles.
You should talk to your doctor about any questions you have. You can find an El Camino Genomic Medicine Institute doctor with expertise in hematology here.
El Camino GMI providers can access professional information here (login required).
