Provider taking blood sample

Hematology

Also known as Blood & Bone Marrow Care

Comprehensive care for blood disorders

Hematology at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Needham  

If you have a blood disorder, it can affect your overall health. Blood circulates through your entire body, transporting oxygen and nutrients to your tissues. It also removes waste, regulates body temperature and enables you to fight diseases.

At BID Needham, you can get the care you need for a wide range of blood disorders that may cause clotting, excess bleeding or other problems.

What is Hematology? 

Hematology is the study of blood and blood disorders. Hematologists research, diagnose and treat disorders that affect blood cells, platelets and related structures, such as bone marrow.

Common blood disorders include:

  • Anemia.
  • Bleeding disorders, such as hemophilia.
  • Blood cancers like leukemia and myeloma.
  • Blood clotting disorders. 

What are the Symptoms of Blood Disorders? 

Blood disorders can cause symptoms in nearly every part of the body. Common symptoms of blood and bleeding disorders include:

  • Bleeding gums.
  • Bruising easily.
  • Chest pain and shortness of breath.
  • Dizziness.
  • Fatigue and weakness.
  • Excessive post-surgery bleeding.
  • Heavy bleeding from small cuts.
  • Nosebleeds.
  • Swelling and tenderness in the legs.
  • Unexplained bleeding.

What Tests are Available for Blood Disorders? 

We may suspect a blood disorder based on your symptoms, medical history and physical exam results. However, some blood disorders don’t cause any symptoms. We may see evidence of a disorder in blood tests for an unrelated condition. In the end, blood tests are always needed to diagnose a blood disorder.

Tests to diagnose a blood disorder include:

  • Bone marrow biopsy.
  • Blood smear.
  • Clotting tests.
  • Complete blood count (CBC).
  • Reticulocyte count.

Contact the Hematology Department

Cancer Center Hematology Group
Phone: 781-453-7500
Referral Fax: 781-453-7575

Treatments We Offer

The hematologists at BID–Needham offer several treatments for blood disorders, including:
  • Anticoagulants
  • Blood and platelet transfusions
  • Corticosteroids
  • Growth factor supplementation