Division of Hematology
The Division of Hematology, part of the Department of Medicine, offers world-class patient care, research programs, and education and training opportunities.
Hematology
Also known as Blood & Bone Marrow Care
Diagnosis and care for blood and bone marrow disorders
Advanced Care for Blood Related Illnesses
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) hematology specialists provide care for benign (noncancerous) blood and bone marrow conditions. Our colleagues provide care for blood and bone marrow cancers, including lymphoma and leukemia.
Personalized Supportive Care
A hallmark of our service is the supportive and compassionate relationship we have with you and your family. We are here for you. We are attentive and responsive to your medical needs. Together, we help you learn about your blood disorder and any tests, procedures or medications you need.
Understanding Hematology
Hematologic disorders are those that affect the blood. This includes health conditions that affect:
- Red blood cells, which carry oxygen to the body's tissues.
- White blood cells, which fight infection and provide immunity.
- Platelets, which play an important role in blood clotting and in bleeding control.
- Coagulation, the blood clotting process.
A hematologist provides diagnosis and care for these health conditions. BIDMC hematologists are highly experienced and trained.
Benign Hematologic Conditions
We provide care for the full range of noncancerous blood disorders:
- Anemia
- Hemophilia
- Leukocytosis
- Platelet disorders
- Pulmonary embolism (PE)
- Sickle cell disease
- Thrombocytopenia-absent radius (TAR) syndrome
If you have any symptoms of a hematologic condition, your primary care doctor will refer you to a hematologist for testing and treatment. If you are pregnant and have symptoms of a blood disorder in pregnancy, your Ob/Gyn can refer you to our care.
More About Hematology
Specialized Screening & Diagnostic Services
Your hematologist may use the following tests to diagnose your condition:
- Complete physical examination, including asking questions about your health history and symptoms
- Blood tests
Our hematologists and hematopathologists examine a sample of your blood under a microscope to analyze red cell, white cell and platelet morphology (shape). In some cases, you may need to undergo additional tests, such as a CT-guided bone marrow biopsy.
Our doctors are especially skilled at discerning benign blood diseases from underlying cancer-related hematologic conditions, and then tailoring your care accordingly.
Treatments & Specialty Programs
Depending on your needs, your hematologist may recommend one or a combination of these treatments:
- Watchful waiting to monitor symptom progression
- Oral or intravenous (IV) medications
- Injections, including vitamin B12 or coagulation factors
- Blood transfusions: red cell, plasma or platelet
- Therapeutic phlebotomy to remove units of blood at specific intervals
- Bone marrow (stem cell) transplant
- Surgery to remove the spleen
Apheresis
Similar to dialysis, this machine removes your blood from your body. Then, it filters out white blood cells, platelets or plasma, depending on your condition and needs. The machine then returns your blood to your body.
Clinical Trials
If your doctor thinks you may benefit, they may suggest you participate in a benign hematologic clinical study. These research studies give you access to the latest and emerging treatment options sooner than at most other centers.
Additional Services
Your hematology team coordinates your care with other specialty providers throughout our medical center. This ensures you receive comprehensive, streamlined care.
