If your primary care doctor has referred you to a hematologist, you may be wondering what that means and whether you should be concerned. A hematologist is a medical specialist who diagnoses and treats conditions affecting the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system. These conditions can range from common issues like anemia and iron deficiency to more complex blood disorders and blood cancers.
The good news is that being referred to a hematologist does not necessarily mean you have cancer or a serious medical condition. Many patients visit a hematologist to investigate abnormal blood work, manage ongoing blood disorders, or receive specialized testing and treatment.
At Lindenberg Cancer & Hematology Center in Marlton, New Jersey, our team provides specialized hematology care for patients throughout South Jersey.
Understanding when to see a hematologist can help you take the next step toward getting answers about your health.
1. Abnormal Blood Work, Anemia, or Low Blood Counts
One of the most common reasons to visit a hematologist is an abnormal result on a routine blood test.
Your primary care physician may order a complete blood count (CBC) during an annual physical or when investigating symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, or dizziness. This test measures several important components of your blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
If your results fall outside the normal range, your doctor may recommend further evaluation by a hematologist.
Common conditions and findings that may require a hematology consultation include:
- Anemia: A condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin to carry adequate oxygen.
- Iron deficiency: Low iron levels that may lead to fatigue, weakness, and iron-deficiency anemia.
- Low white blood cell count: A finding that may be associated with certain medications, infections, autoimmune conditions, or bone marrow disorders.
- Low platelet count: Also called thrombocytopenia, which can increase the risk of bruising or bleeding.
- Elevated blood counts: Higher-than-normal red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets that may require additional investigation.
Not every abnormal blood test indicates a serious illness. Blood counts can change for many reasons, and some abnormalities are temporary.
A hematologist can evaluate your medical history, review previous laboratory results, and determine whether additional testing or treatment is necessary.
If you have been referred to a hematologist because of abnormal blood work, scheduling a consultation can help you better understand your results.
2. Unexplained Bruising, Bleeding, or Blood Clotting Problems
Another important reason to visit a hematologist is unexplained bruising, unusual bleeding, or a history of blood clots.
Your blood contains platelets and clotting proteins that work together to stop bleeding when you are injured. When this process does not function properly, you may experience excessive bleeding or develop blood clots more easily than expected.
Signs of a possible bleeding disorder may include:
- Frequent or unexplained bruising
- Recurring nosebleeds
- Bleeding that takes longer than expected to stop
- Unusually heavy menstrual bleeding
- Excessive bleeding following surgery or dental procedures
Hematologists diagnose and manage bleeding disorders such as hemophilia, von Willebrand disease, and certain platelet disorders.
Blood clotting conditions may also require specialized hematology care.
For example, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot develops in a deep vein, commonly in the leg. Some patients with recurring blood clots or a family history of clotting disorders may benefit from evaluation by a hematologist.
Depending on your medical history, a specialist may recommend blood testing, medication management, or additional monitoring.
Important: New leg swelling or pain that may indicate a blood clot requires prompt medical evaluation. Sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, or coughing up blood may indicate a medical emergency and requires immediate emergency care.
If you have experienced unexplained bleeding, unusual bruising, or recurring blood clots, a hematologist can help determine whether an underlying blood disorder is contributing to your symptoms.
3. Leukemia, Lymphoma, and Other Blood Cancers
Hematologists also diagnose and treat cancers that affect the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system.
These conditions are often managed by physicians who specialize in both hematology and medical oncology.
Some of the blood cancers commonly evaluated by hematologist-oncologists include:
Leukemia
Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects blood-forming tissues, including the bone marrow. It can cause the production of abnormal blood cells that interfere with normal blood cell function.
Lymphoma
Lymphoma affects the lymphatic system, which plays an important role in the body’s immune response. The two major categories are Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Multiple Myeloma
Multiple myeloma is a cancer of plasma cells, a type of white blood cell found in the bone marrow. It can affect normal blood cell production, kidney function, and bone health.
Symptoms that may lead a physician to recommend additional testing include persistent fatigue, unexplained weight loss, swollen lymph nodes, recurring infections, night sweats, or abnormal blood counts.
However, these symptoms can also occur with many noncancerous conditions. Experiencing one or more of them does not automatically mean you have blood cancer.
A hematologist-oncologist can review your symptoms, evaluate laboratory results, and determine whether additional diagnostic testing is appropriate.
For patients in Marlton, Burlington County, Camden County, Gloucester County, and surrounding South Jersey communities, receiving specialized hematology care close to home can make ongoing appointments and follow-up visits more convenient.
4. Inherited Blood Disorders and Chronic Hematologic Conditions
Some blood disorders are inherited, while others develop over time and require continued medical management.
A hematologist can help patients understand these conditions, manage symptoms, monitor blood counts, and develop individualized treatment plans.
Examples include:
Sickle Cell Disease
Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder that affects the shape and function of red blood cells. It can cause anemia, episodes of severe pain, and other medical complications.
Thalassemia
Thalassemia is an inherited condition that affects the body’s ability to produce hemoglobin. Depending on its severity, patients may experience mild anemia or require ongoing specialized treatment.
Hemophilia
Hemophilia is a bleeding disorder in which the blood lacks sufficient activity of certain clotting factors. Patients may experience prolonged bleeding or bleeding into joints and muscles.
Chronic Blood Count Abnormalities
Some patients have persistent abnormalities involving their red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets. These conditions may require periodic testing and monitoring, even when symptoms are minimal.
A hematologist can help determine whether treatment is needed and how frequently follow-up appointments should occur.
Managing a chronic blood disorder often involves an ongoing relationship with a specialist who understands your medical history and can adjust your care as needed.
Is It Serious to Be Referred to a Hematologist?
Being referred to a hematologist can feel intimidating, particularly if you are unsure why your physician recommended the appointment.
However, a hematology referral does not automatically mean you have cancer.
Many patients are referred for common concerns such as iron-deficiency anemia, mildly abnormal blood counts, low platelets, or unexplained fatigue.
In some cases, the hematologist may determine that no immediate treatment is necessary and recommend periodic monitoring instead.
The purpose of the referral is to obtain a more detailed evaluation from a physician who specializes in blood-related conditions.
Rather than assuming the worst, consider your hematology appointment an opportunity to better understand your health and determine whether additional care is necessary.
What Happens at Your First Hematology Appointment?
If you have never visited a hematologist, knowing what to expect can make your first appointment more comfortable.
During your initial consultation, your hematologist will typically review your medical history, discuss any symptoms, and examine previous laboratory results.
Your physician may ask about:
- Your current symptoms and how long you have experienced them
- Previous blood test results
- Current medications and supplements
- Family history of blood disorders
- Previous surgeries, hospitalizations, or blood clots
- Any history of unusual bleeding or bruising
Depending on your situation, your hematologist may recommend additional blood work or other diagnostic testing.
Not every patient requires extensive testing or immediate treatment. The next steps will depend on your symptoms, medical history, and laboratory findings.
Bringing copies of recent blood test results and a list of your medications can help make your appointment more productive.
Finding a Hematologist in South Jersey
If your primary care doctor has recommended a hematology consultation, finding an experienced specialist close to home is an important next step.
At Lindenberg Cancer & Hematology Center in Marlton, NJ, our team provides specialized care for patients with blood disorders, abnormal blood counts, and hematologic cancers.
Our physicians work with patients to evaluate their conditions, explain diagnostic findings, and develop treatment or monitoring plans based on their individual medical needs.
Whether you are seeking an initial evaluation for abnormal blood work or ongoing care for a diagnosed blood disorder, our goal is to help you understand your condition and available treatment options.
Lindenberg Cancer & Hematology Center serves patients throughout South Jersey, including Marlton, Cherry Hill, Mount Laurel, Medford, Voorhees, and surrounding communities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting a Hematologist
Why would my doctor refer me to a hematologist?
Your primary care doctor may refer you to a hematologist if routine blood tests show abnormal results or if you experience symptoms that could indicate a blood disorder. Common reasons include anemia, low platelet counts, elevated blood counts, unexplained bruising, bleeding problems, and blood clots.
Does seeing a hematologist mean I have cancer?
No. Many hematology patients have noncancerous conditions such as iron deficiency, anemia, or platelet abnormalities. A hematologist evaluates both benign blood disorders and blood cancers.
What blood tests does a hematologist perform?
A hematologist may order a complete blood count (CBC), iron studies, vitamin B12 and folate testing, blood clotting studies, or other specialized laboratory tests. The tests recommended depend on your symptoms and previous results.
Can a hematologist treat anemia?
Yes. Hematologists evaluate and treat many types of anemia, including iron-deficiency anemia and anemia associated with certain chronic illnesses or blood disorders. Treatment depends on the underlying cause.
Should I see a hematologist for a high white blood cell count?
A high white blood cell count can occur for several reasons, including infections, inflammation, medications, and certain blood disorders. If your count remains elevated or your physician identifies other concerning findings, a hematology consultation may be recommended.
What is the difference between a hematologist and an oncologist?
A hematologist specializes in blood disorders, while an oncologist specializes in cancer. A hematologist-oncologist has specialized training in both areas and may treat patients with benign blood disorders as well as blood cancers.
Do I need a referral to see a hematologist?
Referral requirements depend on your insurance plan and the medical practice’s scheduling policies. Contact your insurance provider and the hematology office to confirm whether a referral or prior authorization is required.
How do I find a hematologist near Marlton, NJ?
Patients searching for a hematologist in Marlton or the surrounding South Jersey area can contact Lindenberg Cancer & Hematology Center to learn more about hematology consultations and appointment availability.
Schedule a Hematology Consultation in Marlton, NJ
If you have received abnormal blood test results, are experiencing unexplained symptoms, or have been referred to a hematologist by your primary care physician, specialized evaluation can help you understand your condition and determine the appropriate next steps.
At Lindenberg Cancer & Hematology Center, our team provides hematology and oncology care for patients throughout Marlton and South Jersey.
Whether you need an initial consultation or ongoing management of a blood disorder, we are here to help you navigate your care with clear information and individualized attention.
Contact Lindenberg Cancer & Hematology Center today to request a hematology appointment in Marlton, New Jersey.