Dr. Soumit K. Basu - What is Hematology-Oncology?
Soumit K. Basu, MD, PhD, is a top hematologist-oncologist who lends his skills and expertise to serve patients at Geisinger Medical Center in Wilkes Barre, PA. He is the Northeast Regional Director of Hematology/Oncology and Clinical Co-director of the Center for Bone Marrow Transplantation at Geisinger. His role entails... more
What is hematology-oncology?
Hematology-oncology is a branch of medicine that deals primarily with malignancies of the blood, blood disorders, and abnormalities of the immune system. Commonly treated blood disorders include iron-deficiency anemia, hemophilia, and leukemia, among others.
Iron-Deficiency Anemia occurs when there is a lack of iron in the body. Symptoms do not typically present in mild or moderate cases. In severe cases, one may experience fatigue, shortness of breath, and or/chest pain.
Hemophilia is a bleeding disorder in which blood is slow to clot. If a person with this condition is injured or has surgery, their bleeding will be prolonged and can be dangerous. Immediate intervention is required so that blood does not seep into the joints, muscles, brain, or other internal organs. There are two major types of hemophilia: Type A and Type B.
Leukemia is a cancer of the blood. It is caused by an increase of white blood cells in the body and can be classified as acute or chronic. Symptoms differ depending on type of leukemia, but often include fatigue, pain, headache, or fever.