Observation is a cornerstone of Medicine. This finding does not hinder anyone who has even a minimal experience of Haematology.

Haematology has another specificity: it could be described as a “technologically pioneering” specialty as observation by the naked eye is always complemented by microscopic examination.

Haematopoietic tissue is ideally suited to observation & recording of physiological & pathological processes by photographing macroscopic & microscopic images. This is due to its fluid nature and the fact that its cells are isolated. So with simple aspiration, material for morphological examination is easily obtained and more specialized examinations complete the diagnosis ‘puzzle’ along with detailed background & objective examination.

Easy access to the haematopoietic tissue without particularly invasive operations has contributed to the in-depth study of biology, physiology & blood pathology. The microscopic examination was extended and supplemented with classic & molecular cytogenetics (FISH), molecular biology (PCR, cDNA microarrays, Southern printing), physical (MRI) & chemistry (electrophoresis, chromatography, spectrometry, etc.).

The Haematologist today has many “arrows” in his diagnostic quantum – much more than what is needed in terms of the available therapeutic options and the needs of the patient.