What does hematology primarily involve?

Hematology primarily involves testing of whole blood and examination of blood cells. This field of medicine focuses on the study of blood, blood disorders, and the components of blood, which include red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. By analyzing whole blood, hematologists can diagnose a variety of conditions such as anemia, infections, clotting disorders, and hematologic malignancies.

In hematology, blood tests are conducted to evaluate the count, shape, size, and function of these blood cells. This includes a complete blood count (CBC), which provides crucial information about the overall health of a patient and helps in identifying various diseases.

While testing of plasma, examination of bone marrow, and measurement of serum proteins are all relevant to understanding various hematological conditions, they are more specialized components or sub-disciplines within the broader context of hematology. Plasma testing typically focuses on the liquid part of the blood, bone marrow examination is often done when a deeper understanding of blood cell production is needed, and serum protein measurement helps evaluate the immune response and liver function. However, the cornerstone of hematology is its comprehensive assessment of whole blood and blood cells, making it fundamental to diagnosing and managing blood-related diseases.