Hematologic Pathology and Physical Therapy Implications

What are the formed elements of blood?

Erythrocytes, leukocytes, and thrombocytes.

What is the significance of plasma in hematology?

Plasma is the liquid component of blood that carries cells, nutrients, hormones, and waste products.

What are common signs of hematologic disorders?

Signs include edema, infarction, thrombus/embolus, lymphedema, bleeding, bruising, shock, and lymphadenopathy.

What is splenomegaly?

An enlargement of the spleen, often associated with various hematologic disorders.

What factors should a physical therapist consider when treating a patient with a hematologic disorder?

Oxygen carrying capacity, coagulation profile, infection risk, role of exercise, and vital sign monitoring.

How does aging affect blood production?

There is a decrease in RBC and lymphocyte production, as well as decreased hemoglobin and hematocrit levels.

What are the types of blood transfusions?

RBC, platelets, specific clotting factors, and autologous transfusions.

What are potential reactions to blood products?

Fever, circulatory overload, transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI), acute and delayed reactions, allergic reactions, and sepsis.

What is hemochromatosis?

A disorder characterized by excessive iron absorption in the small intestine, often leading to liver disease and joint pain.

What are the main causes of anemia?

Destruction of erythrocytes, decreased erythrocyte production, and blood loss (hemorrhage).

What are the clinical manifestations of anemia?

Pallor, tachycardia, and symptoms related to decreased oxygen delivery.

What does a reticulocyte count indicate in anemia diagnosis?

It helps differentiate types of anemia by showing if the bone marrow is compensating for RBC loss.

What is polycythemia vera?

A myeloproliferative disorder characterized by an uncontrolled increase in erythrocytes, leading to cardiovascular and neurological complications.

What are the symptoms of sickle cell disease?

Chronic hemolytic anemia, vaso-occlusion, pain episodes, fatigue, and risk of acute chest syndrome and stroke.

What are the implications of thalassemias in treatment?

Frequent blood transfusions are needed, which can lead to iron overload and require careful management.

What is leukocytosis?

An increase in WBC count (>10000/mm3) often indicating infection or inflammation.

What is leukopenia?

A decrease in WBC count (<5000/mm3), increasing the risk of infection.

What are the main types of leukemia?

Acute and chronic types, including lymphocytic and myelogenous leukemias.

What are common symptoms of leukemia?

Anemia, infection due to neutropenia, and bleeding tendencies due to decreased platelets.

What is the treatment goal for leukemias?

To kill all neoplastic cells and provide supportive care.

What are the characteristics of Hodgkin lymphoma?

Cancers originating in the lymphatic system with constitutional symptoms and enlarged lymph nodes.

What is multiple myeloma?

A neoplasm of plasma cells in the bone marrow, leading to bone lesions and various systemic symptoms.

What are common symptoms of multiple myeloma?

Bone pain, pathological fractures, fatigue, neurologic symptoms, renal insufficiency, and recurrent infections.

What are the side effects of chemotherapy in multiple myeloma?

Peripheral neuropathy, increased risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE), and herpes zoster reactivation.

What are the physical therapy implications for patients with hematologic disorders?

Monitor symptoms, educate patients, and address complications like acute chest syndrome and stroke.

What is the prognosis for multiple myeloma?

Not curable, but patients can live for about 10 years after diagnosis with treatment.

What is the role of genetic counseling in sickle cell disease?

To inform families about inheritance patterns and risks of passing the condition to offspring.