Hematology offers an exhaustive menu of investigations. Routine blood counts are done by top of the line equipment such as LH 750 from Beckman Coulter and Sysmex XE-2100 Blood Cell Analysers which give multiple parameters for each blood cell in every sample within a minute. The equipments generate interpretative data, along with flags or signals for abnormalities of red cells, white cells and platelets. All such 'flagged' samples are reviewed by the hematologist and a descriptive report with advice is issued to the patient.
A large variety of tests for characterizing complex bleeding and thrombotic disorders are available. These include coagulation factor assays, tests for thrombophilia and platelet function tests. Reliable monitoring of oral anticoagulation is made possible with the help of high quality reagents.
Other specialized investigations being carried out include study of abnormal hemoglobins by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), hemolytic anemia studies, leukemia cytochemistry etc.
We also have a FacCanto II Flow Cytometer which is capable of performing a 6- colour analysis simultaneously. This is a powerful tool for diagnosis, monitoring, staging & prognosis of a large number of hematological malignancies (acute leukemias and lymphomas) & immunological disorders (immune deficiency syndromes such as HIV).
Molecular test for diagnosing thrombotic disorders and some myeloproliferative diseases are also available to facilitate diagnosis of these less commonly occurring conditions.
Heparin induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT) Test
Thrombocytopenia, a frequently occurring complication of heparin therapy is known as heparin induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). 1 – 5% of patients receiving heparin develop heparin induced thrombocytopenia. This is seen 5 – 15 days after starting heparin therapy if the patient is not previously exposed to heparin.
Clinical symptoms associated with HIT syndrome primarily include low platelet count and an increased risk of venous and/or arterial thromboembolism and the development of antibodies against a complex of heparin and Platelet Factor 4 (PF4). The HIT antibody test reveals detectable antibodies against the complex.
The Hematology Department has introduced a new test, the HIT Antibody Test. This is a Particle Gel Immuno Assay which reveals detectable antibodies against the heparin and Platelet Factor 4 (PF4) complex.
Sample Requirement: Blood (3-4 ml) sample should be drawn into Plain tube (no anticoagulant) as serum is required for the test. Patient need not be fasting.
Report Availability: The test will be performed on routine basis. Report of samples received by 1pm, available same day after 6 pm, else next day.
New Tests
- CBC without Differential
- IPF (Immature Platelet Fraction)
- CBC with Retic & IPF