Hematology is the study of blood and disorders associated with blood. Hematology tests at Core Medical Laboratories are used to observe the various components in a patient’s blood. By observing the component’s levels, medical practitioners are able to help diagnose disorders such as hemophilia, leukemia, anemia, and infection.

Hematology blood count tests measure several components and features of a patient’s blood, including:

• Red blood cells: which carry oxygen throughout the body.
• White blood cells: which fight infection.
• Platelets: which allows blood to clot.
• Hemoglobin: the protein that allows red blood cells to transport oxygen throughout the body.
• Hematocrit: the ratio of the volume of red blood cells to the total volume of blood.

Blood count results that are either above or below the normal ranges could indicate a problem depending on which counts are effected. For example:

• Red blood cell, hemoglobin and hematocrit: All three results will be related to each other because they are all aspects of a patient’s red blood cells and how effectively oxygen is being delivered throughout a patient’s system.
  If the three counts are showing lower than normal, that is a good indication of Anemia, which causes fatigue and weakness.
  A higher than normal red blood cell count can be used as an indicator for medical conditions such as heart disease.
• White blood cell count: A low white blood cell is often a strong indicator of an autoimmune disorder, or cancer. However, certain medications also can cause white blood cell counts to drop so please be sure to disclose all medications you are taking to your primary physician.
  A higher than normal white blood cell count is often the result of an infection or inflammation. however, it can still be an indication that a patient may have an immune system disorder or a bone marrow disease. Similar to a low white blood cell count, a high white blood cell count can also be a reaction to medication.
• Platelet count: Similar to both white and red blood cell counts, platelet counts can be influenced by medication that a patient is taking. However, if a platelet count is outside the normal range that can be an indication of any underlying medical condition. Higher than normal platelet counts can be associated with a higher risk of stroke or blood clots. Lower counts are often associated with excessive bleeding or bruising.