Bone marrow pathology is the study of diseases that affect the bone marrow. This can include diagnosis of such conditions, as well as treatment and research to find cures. Those who work in this field undergo strenuous training in addition to medical school to become experts on the workings and ailments of bone marrow. The most common bone marrow illnesses are blood cancers and related conditions.
One aspect of bone marrow pathology is the diagnosis of diseases and conditions which affect the bone marrow. The methods used to go about this are varied and generally depend on the illness suspected. Bone marrow and blood-related cancers are the most common illnesses, and diagnosis consists of checking the blood for an appropriate number of white or red blood cells.
Treatment of illness is another aspect of bone marrow pathology. This can include chemotherapy or radiation for cancers, as well as bone marrow transplants for a variety of conditions. A transplant involves taking healthy bone marrow from a donor and inserting those cells into the person who suffers from a serious condition.
Research is another important part of bone marrow pathology, and involves studying and experimenting to find cures for common bone marrow-related illnesses and conditions. Since bone marrow is where new blood cells are manufactured, it is vital for the body that this system remain healthy. Studies involve finding genetic links to common conditions as well as finding new treatment options and cures.
In most cases, those who wish to study bone marrow pathology must take courses in addition to those taken in medical school. Students may wish to focus on one branch of pathology, such as diagnosis or treatment, or they may study all areas to offer a broader range of services. Not only do most pathologists need to be familiar with every aspect of bone marrow and disease diagnosis, they must also understand equipment and machinery necessary to investigate symptoms very closely.
The majority of pathologists do not work directly with patients, but act as consultants or advisors to other physicians. The patient’s primary physician may be the one to visit with him or her and take note of all symptoms, at which time he will give the information along with blood and other samples to the pathologist. The pathologist will also give treatment recommendations for the primary physician to use. He may also advise surgeons and other specialists of certain risks and particulars of the disease in question.
