An oncogematologist is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of malignant blood diseases. These diseases include iron deficiency anemia, myeloma, hemophilia, sickle cell anemia, leukemia, and lymphoma. An oncohematologist specializes in hematology (the study of blood) and oncology (the study of cancer).
The attending physician may refer the patient to an oncohematologist for consultation if blood tests show abnormal abnormalities. Blood consists of four components:
- white blood cells (fight infection);
- red blood cells (carry oxygen from the lungs to the heart, organs and tissues);
- platelets (form blood clots and prevent bleeding);
- plasma (transfers waste products from the blood to the liver and kidneys).
When a patient has an excess or deficiency of one of the above components, the hematologist prescribes more tests to determine the cause of the abnormality in the blood and how to treat it. In clinics abroad, the price of a consultation with an oncohematologist will be added to the cost of the prescribed procedures.
What tests does the oncohematologist recommend for consultation?
During the first consultation abroad, an oncogematologist conducts a thorough physical examination. He will focus on any enlarged lymph nodes, bruising, or possible signs of infection. The doctor will check the abdomen for enlargement of the spleen or liver. If blood cancer is suspected, the hematologist will send you for special blood and bone marrow tests.
Blood tests
Blood samples for all tests are usually taken from a vein in the arm. A complete analysis measures the quantitative component of each type of blood cell and determines the level of different types of white blood cells. A peripheral blood smear is also taken. A drop of blood is applied to a special plate and then examined under a microscope to see what the cells look like. Changes in the number and appearance of cells often help diagnose leukemia.
Patients with blood cancer usually have too many immature white cells in their blood and not enough red blood cells or platelets. If many of the white blood cells are lymphoblasts (immature lymphocytes that are not normally found in the bloodstream), this indicates the presence of a malignant disease.
Blood chemistry tests measure the amount of certain chemicals, but they are not used to diagnose blood cancer. These procedures can help identify liver or kidney problems caused by the spread of leukemic cells or side effects of certain chemotherapy drugs. The results of the blood's chemical activity also help determine whether treatment is required to correct low or high levels of certain minerals in the blood.
Before making an appointment with an oncohematologist, the patient can also do a blood clotting test.
Bone Marrow Tests
Bone marrow samples are obtained by aspiration and biopsy. The material is usually taken from the back of the pelvic bone. These procedures are used to diagnose leukemia and can be repeated to determine if the cancer is responding to treatment. The cost of consultation with an oncogematologist and diagnostic procedures can be found at a specific clinic.
