Haematology

Haematology is a subdivision of medicine dealing with the study of:

1. Blood cells specifically red blood cells (erythrocytes), white blood cells (leukocytes) and platelets

2. Bone marrow as the site of blood cell production from stem cells

3. Lymphoid system which functions in the immune response by generating specific types of lymphocytes

4. Haemostatic system-inherited & acquired disorders predisposing to bleeding tendency

5. Inherited & acquired disorders predisposing to thrombosis

6. Genetics -DNA abnormalities that underlies inherited & acquired blood disorders

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Haematologists are involved in diagnosing a range of benign & malignant conditions that may affect the above components. At Ampath we use current technology & testing to achieve an accurate & comprehensive diagnosis which is the starting point for effective patient management.

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Ampath offers a comprehensive INR monitoring and warfarin dosing service, providing healthcare professionals with reliable support in managing patients on anticoagulant therapy. This dosing service is offered for both inpatients and outpatients.

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For more information or to access our INR monitoring and warfarin dosing services contact your nearest Ampath facility.

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A bone marrow aspiration and trephine biopsy can be done to assess the bone marrow status. It is usually done under local anaesthetic from the posterior iliac crest of the pelvic bone.

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Cost:

Please note that even though a bone marrow procedure is relatively simple to perform a range of tests may be requested. Specialized testing is expensive and often necessary for accurate diagnosis. Patients are encouraged to confirm if their medical aid authorizes the procedure. Your local Ampath Care Centre can assist with a pre-procedure quotation.

How to request a bone marrow investigation

Clinicians can contact their nearest Ampath Care Centre or local haematologist to arrange a bone marrow booking. Sedation is rarely used, but, if necessary, please clearly state that this is a requirement so that the necessary arrangements can be made.

This is the removal of blood for the treatment of selected conditions such as hereditary haemochromatosis and erythrocytosis, e.g. polycythaemia vera or chronic hypoxia. The procedure is the same as for blood donors and is generally well tolerated. Every pint (450ml) of blood removed contains about a quarter of a gram of iron.

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In the case of adults, once-weekly therapeutic venesection is recommended initially. More frequent venesections may be appropriate for those with more severe iron overload. For individuals who cannot tolerate therapeutic venesection, other options may include a more limited therapeutic venesection schedule or volume, erythrocytapheresis or iron chelation.

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Our hematologists endeavor to provide expert advice to our referring clients regarding the diagnosis and management of blood disorders. Consultations may arise from abnormal full blood count results, such as unexplained cytopenia; bleeding or clotting disorders; systemic disorders with hematological manifestations or advice on suspected hematological malignancies. Consultative hematology emphasizes the collaboration between the hematologist and referring client to enhance the care of the patient.

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Report on Outreach Visit to Maputo, Mozambique

As a community-driven and patient-focused organization, Ampath Pathologists remains committed to enhancing patient care, supporting education, and fostering development in resource-limited settings. During a recent outreach initiative to Maputo, Mozambique, Dr. Lelanie Pretorius (Haematologist) and Mrs. Debbie Oliver (Area Laboratory Manager – Nelspruit) had the opportunity to engage with several key institutions, including the Oceanpath Ampath Laboratory, the Icor Heart Institute, and the Haematology Department at Maputo Central Hospital.

At Maputo Central Hospital, Dr Pretorius collaborated closely with Dr. Virgilio Nhantumbo and Dr. Nelia Manguele, In addition, Mrs. Oliver delivered technical training to laboratory staff on bone marrow smear preparation, further enhancing the department’s diagnostic capabilities.

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The outreach visit proved to be both productive and inspiring.

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