What a hematologist does
A hematologist is a doctor who diagnoses and treats diseases of the blood, bone marrow and lymph nodes. Training is MD in Medicine or Paediatrics followed by a DM or DNB in Hematology (clinical haematologists), or an MD in Pathology with haematology training (haematopathologists, who examine blood and marrow under the microscope). Blood diseases are common in India, from nutritional anaemia and thalassaemia to leukaemia and clotting disorders.
When to see a hematologist
- Anaemia that does not improve with iron, B12 or folate, or unexplained low hemoglobin.
- Low platelets, low white cells, or abnormal cells on a blood report.
- Easy bruising, prolonged bleeding or heavy periods with a family history of bleeding.
- Blood clots in the legs, lungs or elsewhere, or repeated miscarriages.
- Thalassaemia, sickle cell disease or a family history of blood disorders.
- Swollen lymph glands, unexplained fever or weight loss suggesting lymphoma or leukaemia.
Conditions treated
Iron-deficiency and other anaemias, thalassaemia, sickle cell disease, haemophilia and von Willebrand disease, immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), aplastic anaemia, leukaemias, lymphomas, myeloma, myelodysplastic syndromes, clotting disorders and the blood side of other diseases. Bone marrow transplantation is offered at specialist centres.
Tests
Evaluation starts with a CBC, peripheral smear, reticulocyte count, ferritin, B12, folate and coagulation tests (PT, aPTT), and may include hemoglobin electrophoresis, a bone marrow examination, flow cytometry and genetic tests. Many conditions are treatable, and treatment has advanced greatly for blood cancers and inherited disorders.
Fees and choosing
Consultation fees commonly range from about ₹700 to ₹2,000 and may vary. Choose a DM/DNB-qualified haematologist, and for transplant or leukaemia care a centre with a dedicated unit and blood bank. Compare hematologists and book on Lab Dekho.
Trusted References
This guide is original content informed by recognised medical and public-health sources. For further reading:
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Costs and fees are approximate and vary by provider. Institution names are given for orientation only; check current services and timings directly. In an emergency, call 108 or 112.