Hematologic emergencies in children.

Hematologic emergencies may be defined as sudden or unexpected life-threatening events in clinical hematology and oncology which require immediate action predominantly based on clinical judgements and supported only by investigations that can be expected to produce results rapidly. It is convenient to classify these emergencies according to disorders affecting the erythrocytes; leukocytes; platelets; hemostasis; defence mechanisms against infection; the respiratory system; and emergencies related to drugs used for the treatment of neoplasia. A proposed classification is outlined. Part of treatment of hematologic emergencies is to ensure that the cicumstances which caused them will not recur in the same patient or those with similar disorders.