Are All Oncologists Hematologists?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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The term “ oncologist” comes from two different types of doctors.

specialize in diagnosing and treating blood diseases

. specialize in diagnosing and treating cancers. A hematologist oncologist specializes in both.

Does oncology include hematology?

Hematology-oncology refers to

the combined medical practice of hematology

(the study of the blood's physiology) and oncology (the study of cancer). This type of medicine diagnoses and treats cancerous blood disorders and cancers, and manages symptoms of these diseases and resultant tumors (if present).

Why are most hematologists also oncologists?

It is common for hematologists to also train in oncology, which is the study, diagnosis,

and treatment of cancer

. The combined training allows these doctors to treat a range of blood-related illnesses, including some cancers.

Does seeing a hematologist mean I have cancer?


A referral to a hematologist does not inherently mean that you have cancer

. Among the diseases a hematologist may treat or participate in treating: Bleeding disorders like hemophilia. Red blood cell disorders like anemia or polycythemia vera.

Why would you be referred to a hematologist?

Reasons include if you have or might have:

Anemia, or low red blood cells

.

Deep vein thrombosis

(blood clots) Leukemia, lymphoma, or multiple myeloma (cancers in your bone marrow, lymph nodes, or white blood cells)

What's the difference between hematology and oncology?

Hematologists

specialize in diagnosing and treating blood diseases

. Oncologists specialize in diagnosing and treating cancers. A hematologist oncologist specializes in both. You might see a hematologist oncologist if you have blood cancer or suspected blood cancer.

What happens at your first Hematology Oncology appointment?

During this appointment, you will receive

a physical exam

. The hematologist also will want you to describe your current symptoms and general health. Blood tests will be ordered and when the results are reviewed, the hematologist can begin to diagnose your particular blood disorder or disease.

What is the salary of a hematologist?

Salary Recap

The average pay for a Medical Hematologist is

$333,121 a year

and $160 an hour in the United States. The average salary range for a Medical Hematologist is between $221,296 and $443,270. On average, a Doctorate Degree is the highest level of education for a Medical Hematologist.

What blood tests do oncologists see?

The CBC or complete blood count and common chemistry tests are

used to monitor for side effects of cancer treatment

. The CBC or complete blood count and common chemistry tests are used to monitor for side effects of cancer treatment.

What happens when you see a hematologist?

If you've been referred to a hematologist, you will probably need

blood tests

to find out if a blood disorder is causing the symptoms you're experiencing. The most common tests count your blood cells, measure enzymes and proteins in your blood, and check whether your blood is clotting the way it should.

What condition would be treated by a hematologist?

A hematologist is a specialist in hematology, the science or study of blood, blood-forming organs and blood diseases. The medical aspect of hematology is concerned with the treatment of blood disorders and malignancies, including

types of hemophilia, leukemia, lymphoma and sickle-cell anemia

.

What can a hematologist diagnose?

Hematologists and are highly trained healthcare providers who specialize in diseases of the blood and blood components. These include blood and bone marrow cells. Hematological tests can help diagnose

anemia, infection, hemophilia, blood-clotting disorders, and leukemia

.

What are the signs of leukemia in adults?

  • Fever or chills.
  • Persistent fatigue, weakness.
  • Frequent or severe infections.
  • Losing weight without trying.
  • Swollen lymph nodes, enlarged liver or spleen.
  • Easy bleeding or bruising.
  • Recurrent nosebleeds.
  • Tiny red spots in your skin (petechiae)

What is the most common hematology test?

One of the most common hematology tests is

the complete blood count, or CBC

. This test is often conducted during a routine exam and can detect anemia, clotting problems, blood cancers, immune system disorders and infections.

When should you see a hematologist for anemia?

“But from a perspective, if you have done a reasonable workup and still can't explain the cause, there are abnormalities that suggest a bone marrow problem,

there are drops in all three cell lines

, or the white blood cell counts are exceedingly low or high, it's time to refer the patient to a hematologist,” …

What does a hematologist do for blood clots?

A hematologist accurately

identifies and diagnoses clotting abnormalities that may contribute to the development of a clot

. Accurate diagnosis is essential to the health of patients and families. Hematologists have extensive experience in the management of anticoagulation.

James Park
Author
James Park
Dr. James Park is a medical doctor and health expert with a focus on disease prevention and wellness. He has written several publications on nutrition and fitness, and has been featured in various health magazines. Dr. Park's evidence-based approach to health will help you make informed decisions about your well-being.