Hematology
The Hematology Laboratory performs routine hematologic tests as well as specialized tests for identification and quantification of normal hemoglobins and the diagnosis and classification by cytochemical staining of disorders of leukocytes and lymphoid cells.
As part of the Division of Hematopathology, the hematology lab is primarily responsible for the initial diagnosis and subsequent evaluation of a spectrum of hematologic disorders, both common and uncommon, including anemias, leukemias and other causes of low or high blood counts. These disorders are most often detected in complete blood counts (CBCs), which account for the highest volume test in the laboratory (approx. 500,000 annually), with complex cases reviewed by an experienced hematopathologist. The director, other staff hematopathologists, a hematology laboratory system specialist, and skilled technical staff have considerable expertise and experience in diagnostic hematology, with the faculty leadership enjoying international recognition in this arena. In particular, the staff is especially skilled in integrating the various facets involved in the evaluation of patients with neoplastic hematologic disorders, including morphology, histology, cytochemistry, flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, cytogenetics, and molecular genetics.
Most commonly performed assays are ordered using the usual mechanisms. However, a hematopathology fellow and attending are available 24/7 to discuss the performance of specific tests, and the interpretation thereof.
