Hematology, Oncology, Immunology, Rheumatology, and Systemic Autoimmune Diseases
Updated: Aug 25
DOI Book: https://doi.org/10.66715/cerebral-link/2026.v2 | DOI Chapter: https://doi.org/10.66715/cerebral-link/2026.v2.136156| Cerebral Link | Publish by Cerebral Publication Private Limited | 2026 | Volume 2 | Page 1-300 | ISBN: 978-81-689463-2-3 | Book Title: - Textbook of Modern General Medicine | Chapter-7: Hematology, Oncology, Immunology, Rheumatology, and Systemic Autoimmune Diseases
Author: Partha Pratim Adak, Lecturer, Department of Human Physiology, Triveni Institute of Dental Sciences, Hospital & Research Centre Affiliated to Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Memorial Health Science & Ayush University of Chhattisgarh, Bilaspur, Chattisgarh, India
Abstract
Hematological, oncological, immunological, and rheumatological disorders comprise a diverse group of diseases that frequently involve multiple organ systems and require coordinated diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of hematology, oncology, immunology, rheumatology, and systemic autoimmune diseases, emphasizing fundamental mechanisms, clinical presentation, diagnostic evaluation, evidence-based management, and prevention of complications. Hematological disorders include anemia, hemoglobinopathies, leukocyte abnormalities, platelet disorders, coagulation abnormalities, bone marrow failure syndromes, and hematological malignancies. Laboratory interpretation of the complete blood count, peripheral blood smear, coagulation profile, bone marrow examination, and relevant molecular investigations is integrated into clinical decision-making.
The oncology section addresses fundamental principles of carcinogenesis, cancer genetics, screening, diagnosis, staging, prognosis, and multidisciplinary cancer management. Major therapeutic approaches—including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and supportive and palliative care—are considered alongside the recognition and management of oncological emergencies.
Immunological principles are discussed through innate and adaptive immunity, immune dysregulation, hypersensitivity reactions, immunodeficiency disorders, and mechanisms of autoimmunity. Rheumatological and systemic autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic sclerosis, inflammatory myopathies, Sjögren syndrome, vasculitis, spondyloarthropathies, and crystal-associated arthropathies, are reviewed with emphasis on clinical recognition, autoantibody testing, imaging, and appropriate use of immunomodulatory and biologic therapies. Particular attention is given to multisystem involvement and the need for regular monitoring of disease activity and treatment-related complications. Integration of clinical findings with hematological, immunological, molecular, and imaging investigations enables accurate diagnosis and individualized management. A multidisciplinary, evidence-based, and patient-centered approach is essential for improving survival, controlling disease activity, preserving organ function, and enhancing quality of life.
Keywords: Hematology; Oncology; Immunology; Rheumatology; Autoimmune Diseases; Anemia; Cancer; Immunotherapy; Rheumatoid Arthritis; Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
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