Hematology

Caring for Patients with Hematologic Diseases

Patients with disorders of the blood and related tissues require an accurate diagnosis for effective care. At Arizona Oncology, our team of hematologists treats many types of disorders of the blood, bone marrow, lymph nodes, and the immune system.

Diagnosing Blood Disorders

Diagnosis of a hematologic disorder often requires a blood test called a complete blood count (CBC). This test evaluates a small drop of blood and provides a count of the red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Your physicians may also perform other blood tests used to measure enzymes and proteins in the blood, evaluating the function of certain organs such as the thyroid and liver. Because blood develops from the stem cells found in bone marrow, sometimes a sample of bone marrow must be examined to determine why blood cells are abnormal or why there are too few or too many of any kind of blood cell. Bone marrow samples are usually taken from the hip bone using a needle, and the procedure usually takes about 30 minutes.

Treatment of Blood Disorders

Our board-certified hematologists treat many different types of blood disorders, including rare and unusual disorders of the blood, the bone marrow, and the blood vessels. Treatments for blood disorders are as varied as the disorders themselves. Some types of anemia, for example, can be controlled through diet and nutrition. Other blood disorders require more aggressive treatment. From the use of chemotherapy and immunosuppressive drugs to growth factor drugs and blood and marrow transplantation, our hematologists use the latest in therapies and technologies to treat all types of blood disorders. We work closely with our radiation oncologists, pharmacists, and other specialists to ensure comprehensive care of our patients.

Researching Blood Disease

At Arizona Oncology, we are dedicated to expanding the knowledge of cancer and blood disorders, and we are continually working to find better treatment options through clinical trials and other types of research. As part of US Oncology Research, we are able to participate in more clinical trials and provide important access to investigational drugs to people in our community.

Laboratory

Laboratory testing is a key component of detection, diagnosis, and treatment of blood disorders. Our in-house laboratory provides quick results for many routine tests, including complete blood count (CBC), platelet count, and urinalysis, allowing our hematologists to diagnose your disease and prescribe the appropriate treatments as soon as possible.

LIST OF CONDITIONS TREATED: