Hematopathology is a branch of medical science that is dedicated to the diagnosis of blood cells. It involves a deep understanding of blood and its components. It also requires insight into tissues and organs that are vital for assessing and preventing blood diseases. Hematopathologists are specialized in providing clinical and diagnostic services. The work of a haematopathologist primarily requires the diagnosis of the hematopoietic and lymphocyte-rich tissues. The analysis of conditions of these tissues is based on direct examination of the tissue and blood in the laboratory. Much notable research has been emerging in this field during recent times and the future scope looks very promising with recent developments like the introduction of the new drug in the treatment regimen of leukemia, the growing use of hydroxyurea in treating sickle cell anaemia, the growing importance of plasma in the treatment regimen of blood-related diseases and much more. India Being a center of the world’s largest shortage of blood and the rising demand, one can estimate the importance of having expertise in the morphology of blood to make adequate use of limited resources. 

DM in Hematopathology is a thoroughly counselled and highly supervised course. The purpose of the course is to provide intensive didactic knowledge and first-hand practical experience in this field of medicine. It is aimed at students wishing to pursue a career in the speciality of the Hematology medical system. The course is designed to prepare the students in all aspects of Hematology along with its allied subspecialties of the morphology and general haematology, hemolytic anaemia, disorders of blood cells, Disorders of hemostasis and thrombosis, Myelodysplastic syndrome, consultative hematology, Principles of nuclear medicine, biotechnology, blood banking and many other subjects. With the growing number of complications in the cases, it has become important to specialize the learners in the essential principles of histopathology so that they can render their consultative assistance too. It is expected that during the course the students will gain mastery in many aspects of medical science and will be able to cater to the needs of the patient in alliance with the National Programme for blood safety and professional ethical methods. The curriculum is designed in such a manner that it demands participation in research work, seminars, journal clubs, case presentations and discussions, viva, grand round presentations and practical exposure of first-hand knowledge and theories of teachings. The curriculum also provides additional competency in flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, cell sorting, analysis of single genetic markers, clinical haematology, and laboratory haematology, frozen tissue, transfusion medicine, stem cell transplantation, quality management systems, various regulatory guidelines related to the appropriate use of blood, practice-based learning, soft skills, organizational and managerial skills. Overall, the course prepares the students for a highly skilled job through both intensive didactic lectures and clinical and laboratory training in all facets of hematopathology.

The course can be taken by the candidates who completed MD in Pathology from a recognized university. The length of the course is 3 years including 21 months of training in the laboratory, 9 months of training in clinical haematology.  A career in this field is very promising as one can seek employment in sectors like government hospitals, private clinics, research centres, military hospitals, medical universities and many more. The job roles offered are clinical pathology consultant, blood donation center officer, medical advisor, researcher, specialist doctor. haematopathologist, and many others. And if one wants to enrich one’s understanding of this field, the option of further studies is always open.