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Hematology Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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hematology

[ˌhɛm.əˈtɒl.ə.dʒi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical field

Hematology is the branch of medicine that focuses on the study of blood, blood disorders, and the organs involved in blood production. This field encompasses the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases related to blood cells, including leukemia, hemophilia, and anemias. Hematologists, or specialists in hematology, often work in hospitals or laboratories and may perform procedures such as blood transfusions or bone marrow biopsies. The discipline has evolved significantly with advancements in technology, contributing to better outcomes in blood-related conditions.

Synonyms

blood research, blood science, blood studies.

Examples of usage

  • She specializes in hematology and treats various blood disorders.
  • Hematology research has led to breakthroughs in cancer treatment.
  • He is a hematologist focusing on sickle cell disease.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Medical Significance

  • Hematology helps diagnose and treat various conditions, including anemia, blood cancers like leukemia, and clotting disorders.
  • Routine blood tests, an essential part of hematology, can indicate many health issues even before symptoms appear.
  • The field has advanced with technologies like blood transfusion, which saves millions of lives each year.

Famous Figures

  • One of the pioneers in hematology, Dr. Paul Weiss, contributed to understanding the role of blood in the human body.
  • Notable hematologist Dr. H. Jean Khoury is recognized for her research in blood disorders and treatments.
  • Dr. William Harvey, often called the father of modern physiology, described blood circulation, a foundational aspect of hematology.

Cultural Representations

  • In literature, blood often symbolizes life and death, influencing character development and plot twists.
  • Movies and TV shows sometimes depict blood tests as a quick way to uncover secrets or diagnose illnesses dramatically.
  • The superhero genre often uses blood themes to highlight superhuman abilities or transformations.

Technological Advances

  • Advancements like liquid biopsies allow for earlier detection of blood-related conditions using minimal samples.
  • Artificial blood products are being researched to help with shortages in blood banks during emergencies.
  • Automation in hematology labs enables faster and more accurate blood analysis, improving patient care.

Origin of 'hematology'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'hematology' comes from the Greek 'haima,' meaning 'blood,' and 'logia,' meaning 'study.'
  • The term has been used since the late 19th century, reflecting the growth of interest in blood as a vital part of health.
  • Before it became a specialized field, blood-related studies were part of general medical knowledge.

The term 'hematology' comes from the Greek words 'haima' meaning 'blood' and 'logia' meaning 'study of'. It has been used in the medical field since the late 19th century as the scientific study of blood and its disorders gained prominence. The development of hematology as a distinct medical discipline was significantly influenced by advancements in laboratory techniques and diagnostic methods, particularly in the analysis of blood components. In the early 20th century, the recognition of blood cells' roles in health and disease paved the way for the establishment of hematology as a crucial specialty within medicine. As knowledge about blood diseases expanded, so too did the field, leading to the development of treatments such as blood transfusions and chemotherapy for blood cancers. Today, hematology plays an essential role in various areas of healthcare and research.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,180 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.