Hematology

Crystal Run’s hematologists provide consultation, diagnosis, and treatment for a wide range of blood disorders and diseases. The following are a few examples of hematological conditions our blood specialists can treat.

Disorders of Red or White Blood Cells

Disorders of red and white blood cells include any disorder that affects blood cells, causing a variety of symptoms and conditions. These may be genetically inherited or acquired as a result of other underlying diseases, deficiencies, treatment side effects, etc. Red blood cell disorders generally affect oxygen transport, while white blood cell disorders generally affect immune response.

Anemia

Anemia is a condition in which the body has too few healthy red blood cells to transport oxygen. This can lead to symptoms like fatigue, paleness, heart problems, dizziness, and poor immunity. In some cases, complications can be life-threatening. Possible causes include deficiency, disease, and genetic conditions.

Sickle Cell Anemia

Sickle cell anemia is a rare, heritable form of anemia in which red blood cells are shaped like a sickle or crescent. Alongside typical anemia symptoms, it also causes swollen feet and hands, frequent infections, episodes of pain, vision problems, and a shorter average lifespan of 40-60 years. Proper treatment and care may help extend and/or improve a patient’s life.

Thalassemia

Thalassemia is an inherited condition in which the body doesn’t make enough hemoglobin. Because hemoglobin is what enables red blood cells to carry oxygen, thalassemia results in anemia. Unlike other types of anemia, thalassemia can only be treated by a blood transfusion. Symptoms include fatigue, pale or yellow skin, deformed facial bones, dark-colored urine, and delayed growth.

Hemochromatosis

Hemochromatosis is a hereditary condition that causes an excess accumulation of iron in bodily tissues. This build-up eventually leads to issues like organ damage, heart disease, liver disease, and diabetes. Possible symptoms include weakness, fatigue, abdominal pain, heart problems, unusual skin color (gray or bronze), memory problems, etc.

Bleeding and Clotting Disorders

Bleeding and clotting disorders include a variety of disorders that cause abnormal bleeding and clotting. Bleeding may occur more easily and be harder to stop. In some patients, clots may form too frequently, sometimes in life-threatening ways.

These disorders are often inherited and involve abnormalities in blood “factors.” They may also be triggered by vitamin deficiency, low red blood cell count, certain medications, cancer, trauma, airline travel, and more.

Examples of disorders and complications include:

• Hemophilia
• Factor (II, V, VI, X, XI) deficiency
• Von Willebrand disease
• Thrombotic disorders (deep vein thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, etc.)
• Pulmonary embolism

Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancer)

Hematologic Malignancies include any type of cancer that targets the blood. Three of the most common types include leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma.

Leukemia

Leukemia is a rare cancer that affects the formation of blood cells in the bone marrow and lymph tissue. It primarily causes excess production of malformed white blood cells. These cells multiply quickly, so seeking treatment as soon as possible is crucial. Leukemia can have a hereditary component, but other risk factors include things like smoking, chemical exposure, or other cancer treatment.

Lymphoma

Lymphoma affects the immune cells of the lymphatic system, often causing swollen lymph nodes, pain, fatigue, and a variety of other symptoms. There are two primary types: Hodgkin’s lymphoma and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Hodgkin’s lymphoma has more notable symptoms and can be caught earlier. Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma can be asymptomatic, often resulting in a late-stage diagnosis.

Multiple Myeloma

Multiple Myeloma creates excess cancerous, malformed plasma cells. These build up in the bone marrow and produce harmful proteins instead of healthy antibodies. Symptoms may include bone pain, reduced appetite, weakness, frequent infections, and weight loss. It may be hereditary, and the risk increases with age. People who are black or male tend to be at greater risk of myeloma.

Find a Hematologist at Crystal Run Healthcare

With locations in Middletown, Newburgh, Rock Hill, and West Nyack, NY, Crystal Run provides a full range of locally accessible services for the testing and treatment of hematologic disorders. See below for more information on our team of hematologists and surgeons.

Learn more about Oncology care at Crystal Run.