Haematology

The Department of Haematology provides an analytical, diagnostic, interpretative and consultative service to hospitals, clinics and GP practices for a population of approximately 450,000. Analytical investigations are performed on a range of patient’s body fluids and samples, including blood, urine and cerebra-spinal fluid. The department currently analyses approximately 1,300 samples per day, 7 days a week. 

The Haematology department is fully equipped with automated analysers performing full blood counts and coagulation studies which our dedicated team of Biomedical Scientists process on a daily basis.

Our qualified staff are all registered to the Health and Care Professions Council.

The Haematology Laboratory also has close links to the Anticoagulation Service that is housed within Medicine Division, providing Warfarin dosing advice during core office hours.

Please note that the Haematology department is not included within the scope of UKAS Accreditation.

 

Medical emergencies

Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)

In any case of unexplained, first line deranged coagulation studies, a platelet count, in conjunction with the coagulation screen, Fibrinogen and D-Dimer result is essential in interpreting a coagulation screen and a falling count may be the first sign of DIC.  All results must then be phoned through to the requesting source.

Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia Purpura (TTP)

This is a rare blood disorder characterised by clotting in small blood vessels of the body (thromboses), resulting in a pseudo low platelet count.  Other symptoms of the disease include: Microangiopathic Haemolytic Anaemia, commonly referred to as MAHA, thrombocytopenic purpura, neurologic abnormalities, fever, and renal disease. There are specific tests needed to differentially diagnose TTP from either Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome (HUS) or DIC. Discuss urgently with On-Call Haematology Consultant if TTP/HUS is suspected.

 

Laboratory services

The Haematology and Coagulation testing repertoires offered throughout the 24 hour period, for adults and paediatric patients, includes:

  • FBC (Full Blood Count)
  • ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate) – 2ml whole blood required.
  • Reticulocytes
  • Glandular Fever Screening
  • Malaria Parasite detection
  • G6PD screen
  • Sickle Solubility Screens
  • Clotting Screen (PT-INR, APTT)
  • 50:50 mix for APTT / PT
  • Fibrinogen / Thrombin time estimation
  • D-Dimer testing (not tested on - anti-coagulated patients or inpatients. See Venous Thrombo Embolism (VTE) Management Guideline for in-patients aged 16 years and older, Appendix E)
  • INR (Coumarin monitoring)
  • Intrinsic Factor assays where agreed with Clinical / Scientific team if outside core hours).

Please note, this is not an exhaustive list and other tests are available if and when required. 

Department opening hours

The Haematology Department operates a 24-hour service provision for users, including bank holidays, and offers clinical advice and assistance 24-hours a day.

On-call Haematology Consultants can be contacted via switchboard, 01623 622515.