Hematology is the laboratory branch that analyzes blood cellular components (red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets), while Coagulation studies evaluate the complex cascade of plasma proteins (coagulation factors) that regulate blood fluidity and clot formation. These tests are essential for diagnosing a wide range of conditions, such as various types of anemia (iron deficiency, megaloblastic, hemolytic), bacterial or viral infections, inflammation, leukemia, and other blood disorders. Coagulation studies are crucial for monitoring oral anticoagulant therapy (OAT) and parenteral therapy (heparins), for diagnosing congenital or acquired coagulation disorders (hemophilia, factor deficiencies), and for assessing hypercoagulable states (thrombophilia), conditions that increase the risk of venous or arterial thrombotic events. For this purpose, genetic tests are also performed to detect specific mutations, such as those affecting Factor V Leiden and Factor II prothrombin, as well as analysis of other thrombotic risk factors (MTHFR, PAI 1).
