Hematology: meaning, definitions and examples

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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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "hematology" in other languages:

🇵🇹 hematologia

🇮🇳 रक्त विज्ञान

🇩🇪 Hämatologie

🇮🇩 hematologi

🇺🇦 гематологія

🇵🇱 hematologia

🇯🇵 血液学

🇫🇷 hématologie

🇪🇸 hematología

🇹🇷 hematoloji

🇰🇷 혈액학

🇸🇦 علم الدم

🇨🇿 hematologie

🇸🇰 hematológia

🇨🇳 血液学

🇸🇮 hematologija

🇮🇸 blóðfræði

🇰🇿 гематология

🇬🇪 ჰემატოლოგია

🇦🇿 hematologiya

🇲🇽 hematología

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.