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.