Hematologic disorders involve the blood and include problems with red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, bone marrow, lymph nodes, and spleen. Children can experience a variety of disorders, some are genetic while others are acquired. At Mount Sinai, our team of surgical experts treats a wide range of hematologic conditions.
Diagnosis and Treatment
To diagnose hematological disorders, we start with a physical examination and medical history. But generally, we discover blood disorders through performing a complete blood count. This blood test tells us about your child’s red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and hemoglobin levels. We may also do a bone marrow biopsy, taking a sample of your child’s bone marrow and sending it to the lab for testing.
Hematologic Symptoms
- Anemia (low red blood cells) can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, or increased heart rate.
- Thrombocytopenia (low platelets) can cause increased bruising or bleeding from the mouth or nose.
- Hemophilia (poor clotting) can also cause increased bleeding but is known to specifically target muscles and joints without significant injury.
- Blood clots (inappropriate clotting) in the arms or legs may cause swelling and pain.