Who is a Hematologist?

The branch of medicine that focuses on dealing with the study of cause, prognosis, diagnosis, treatment & prevention of diseases, disorders, and medical conditions related to blood and blood-producing organs is called Hematology. So, doctors who are specialized and well trained in Hematology are called Hematologists.

What are the qualifications of a Hematologist?

A 5-year medical degree [MBBS] that is recognized by the General Medical Council and a 2-year foundation course of general training are the basic requirements for an individual to be a doctor. However, following are the specialties or extra qualifications required to be a Hematologist:

• DNB - Hematology
• Diplomate in Hematology (American Board of Internal Medicine)
• MRCP (UK)
• MD - Blood Banking & Immuno. Haem./Imm. Haem. & Blood Trans.
• FRCPath - Haematology
• DM - Clinical Haematology
• MD - Immuno Haematology & Blood Transfusion
• Ph.D. - Haematology
• Diploma in Immuno-Haematology and Blood Transfusion
• DM - Haematology Pathology/Hematopathology
• FRCP - Haematology
• DNB - Immunohaematology and Blood Transfusion

Which conditions can a Hematologist treat?

If a person suffers from any of the following medical conditions or diseases, should consult a Hematologist.

• Hemophilia
• Leukemia
• Severe or chronic anemia
• Hodgkin lymphoma
• Bone marrow failure syndromes
• Thrombosis
• Myeloproliferative neoplasms [MPN]
• Myelodysplastic syndrome
• Blood cancer
• Platelet disorders
• Thrombocytopenia
• Bleeding disorders

What is the difference between a Hematologist and a Hepatologist?

Hematologist treats diseases related to blood & blood-producing organs and Hepatologists treat medical conditions that are associated with the liver, biliary tree, gallbladder, and pancreas.

Can cancer be treated by a Hematologist?

A Hematologist can diagnose and plan an appropriate treatment course for blood cancer, however, in severe cases, the patient will be referred to a well-trained Oncologist who can treat blood cancer.

Can hemophilia be treated by a Hematologist?

Hemophilia is a bleeding disorder that causes blood to not clot properly and leads to excessive bleeding or improper healing. This disorder can be diagnosed and treated by a Hematologist through proper medications and diet changes. One should follow all the instructions provided by his/her Hematologist.