1. COMPLETE BLOOD COUNT (CBC):The CBC is a standard test that provides comprehensive information about the cellular components of blood, including red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets. Parameters measured include hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit, red blood cell indices (mean corpuscular volume-MCV, mean corpuscular hemoglobin-MCH, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration-MCHC), total and differential white blood cell counts-TLC&DLC, and platelet count.

2. PERIPHERAL BLOOD SMEAR EXAMINATION:A peripheral blood smear is prepared from a drop of blood and examined microscopically to assess the morphology of blood cells. This examination helps in identifying abnormalities such as anemia, infections, leukemia, and other hematological disorders.

3. BONE MARROW ASPIRATION AND BIOPSY:Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy are procedures used to obtain samples of bone marrow for examination. These samples are evaluated microscopically to assess the cellular composition, morphology, and architecture of the bone marrow. They are essential for diagnosing various hematological disorders, including leukemia, lymphoma, myelodysplastic syndromes, and bone marrow failure syndromes.

4. COAGULATION STUDIES:Coagulation studies assess the function of the clotting cascade and help diagnose bleeding disorders and thrombotic disorders. Common tests include prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), international normalized ratio (INR), fibrinogen level, and specific factor assays.

5. HEMATOLOGICAL MALIGNANCY TESTING:This includes various tests to diagnose and classify hematological malignancies such as leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Tests may include flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, cytogenetic analysis, and molecular genetic testing.

6. HEMOGLOBINOPATHY SCREENING:Screening tests are performed to detect inherited disorders of hemoglobin such as sickle cell disease and thalassemia. Techniques may include hemoglobin electrophoresis, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and molecular genetic testing.

7. HEMOSTASIS AND THROMBOSIS TESTING:Specialized tests are performed to assess hemostasis and thrombosis disorders, including platelet function assays, von Willebrand factor assays, lupus anticoagulant testing, and factor activity assays.

8. BLOOD GROUPING:Blood typing performed to ensure compatibility between donor blood and recipient blood before transfusion. These tests help prevent transfusion reactions and ensure the safety of blood transfusions.

9. ERYTHROCYTE SEDIMENTATION RATE (ESR) & C-REACTIVE PROTEIN (CRP):ESR testing measures the rate at which red blood cells settle in a tube of blood and is used as a nonspecific indicator of inflammation. It is often used as a screening test for various inflammatory conditions.

10. HEMATOLOGICAL CONSULTATION:Pathologists and hematologists provide interpretation of test results, consultation on the diagnosis and management of hematological disorders, and collaboration with other healthcare providers in patient care.

These are some of the key services offered in the hematology section of a pathology laboratory. The comprehensive evaluation of blood and bone marrow samples plays a critical role in the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of various hematological conditions.