An adult’s body contains a total of about 5 to 6 liters of blood. This bodily fluid, also known as the “liquid organ,” ensures the proper functioning of the body’s various tissues with the support of the cardiovascular system and blood circulation. Among other things, blood supplies oxygen to tissues and organs, transports waste products, nutrients, and hormones, regulates body temperature, and supports the immune system. Blood, which consists of red and white blood cells (erythrocytes and leukocytes) as well as platelets (thrombocytes), is primarily produced by the bone marrow.
Diseases of the blood and the blood-forming organs, including their resulting effects on the immune system, are classified according to ICD-10—the World Health Organization’s (WHO) globally recognized diagnostic classification system—in Chapter III under codes D50 through D89. The medical specialty that deals with these diseases is called hematology. On the following pages, you will find comprehensive information on the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for various blood and immune disorders. You can also use this resource to find and contact the right hematology specialists.
Diseases of the blood and the blood-forming organs, including their resulting effects on the immune system, are classified according to ICD-10—the World Health Organization’s (WHO) globally recognized diagnostic classification system—in Chapter III under codes D50 through D89. The medical specialty that deals with these diseases is called hematology. On the following pages, you will find comprehensive information on the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for various blood and immune disorders. You can also use this resource to find and contact the right hematology specialists.
