Haematologists care for people with a wide range of blood disorders. Some conditions are inherited, while others develop later in life. Therefore, early diagnosis often plays an important role in selecting the most appropriate treatment.
Anaemia
Anaemia occurs when the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells or haemoglobin to carry oxygen effectively. Common symptoms include tiredness, weakness, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
Bleeding and Clotting Disorders
Haematologists diagnose conditions that affect normal blood clotting, including inherited bleeding disorders and conditions that increase the risk of blood clots.
Leukaemia
Leukaemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow that affects the production of white blood cells. Treatment depends on the specific type and stage of the disease.
Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system. However, many forms of lymphoma respond well to modern treatment when diagnosed early.
Multiple Myeloma
Multiple myeloma is a cancer affecting plasma cells within the bone marrow. Treatment may include targeted therapy, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, or stem cell transplantation, depending on the individual's condition.
What's the Difference Between a Haematologist and an Oncologist?
A haematologist specialises in disorders affecting the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system. They manage both non-cancerous blood disorders, such as anaemia and clotting disorders, and blood cancers such as leukaemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.
An oncologist specialises in treating cancer. While oncologists manage many different types of cancer, haematologists focus specifically on blood-related diseases. Some specialists practise haematology and oncology together and are known as haematologist-oncologists.
When Should You See a Haematologist?
You may be referred to a haematologist if you have:
- Persistent anaemia
- Abnormal blood test results
- Easy bruising or prolonged bleeding
- Recurrent blood clots
- Suspected leukaemia or lymphoma
- Multiple myeloma
- An inherited blood disorder such as thalassaemia
Early assessment helps identify the cause of blood abnormalities and allows appropriate treatment to begin as soon as possible.
Ready to Find a Haematologist?
Explore PRIME's featured haematologists below to learn about their qualifications, areas of expertise, clinic locations, and patient education resources. You can also browse related articles and videos to better understand blood disorders, blood cancers, and available treatment options.
