About UPMC Hematology Services

What Is Hematology?

Hematology is the branch of medicine that examines blood and disorders affecting blood. The term originates from the Greek word haima, which means blood.

This field explores how blood is produced and its functions within the body, including the roles of red and white blood cells, platelets, bone marrow, lymph nodes, and the proteins responsible for clotting and preventing bleeding.

Hematology is divided into two main areas:

• Benign hematology — Deals with noncancerous blood conditions, such as anemia, excessive bleeding, or clotting disorders.
• Malignant hematology — Addresses blood cancers, including leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.

At UPMC:

• Benign hematological disorders — Are managed by hematologists.
• Malignant hematological disorders — Are managed by the team at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center.

In Pittsburgh, patients with malignant blood disorders are seen at the Mario Lemieux Center for Blood Cancers, located at the flagship UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, while patients with benign disease may be seen at a variety of UPMC locations.

In other areas of Pennsylvania, patients with both malignant and benign blood diseases may be seen at one of the many convenient UPMC Hillman satellite locations throughout the state.

What is classical hematology?

UPMC sometimes uses the term “classical hematology” instead of “benign” or “noncancerous” hematology to describe the wide spectrum of nonmalignant blood disorders we treat. These terms also downplay the seriousness of these conditions, some of which can be life-threatening.

What Is A Hematologist?

A hematologist is a medical doctor who diagnoses and treats blood-related conditions. Some specialize in benign (noncancerous) disorders, while others focus on malignant (cancerous) blood disorders. Some manage both types.

A hematologist-oncologist is trained in treating both noncancerous blood disorders and blood cancers. Hematology-oncology (often called hem-onc) is a branch of oncology — the study, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cancer. Blood cancers differ from solid tumors that develop in organs or tissues, so they require special treatment approaches.

Primary care or internal medicine doctors may handle common blood issues, such as iron-deficiency anemia. But if the condition is severe, persistent, or involves bleeding or clotting problems, they will refer you to a hematologist.

What does a hematologist do?

A hematologist can:

• Identify blood disorders through laboratory tests and physical examinations.
• Collaborate with your other health care providers to ensure you receive comprehensive care.
• Give advice on and oversee treatment plans.
• Monitor your health and blood disorder over time.

Why would I need a hematologist?

You might be referred to a hematologist if you have:

• Anemia — A condition where red blood cell levels are low, such as iron-deficiency anemia.
• Bleeding problems — Like von Willebrand disease, which is caused by a deficiency of a protein needed for blood clotting.
• Clotting disorders — Such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or hemophilia, a rare inherited bleeding condition.
• Conditions requiring blood thinner administration and monitoring.
• Multiple pregnancy losses due to blood issues.
• Inherited blood conditions — Such as sickle cell disease or thalassemia.
• White blood cell or platelet disorders — Whether too high or too low.

What Conditions Do We Treat?

Hematologists treat a wide array of diseases and conditions.

View a complete list of conditions we treat.

By UPMC Editorial Staff. Last reviewed on 2026-05-20.