Cardiology is the medical field that deals with diagnosing and treating diseases of the heart, blood vessels, and circulatory system. These diseases include coronary artery disease, heart rhythm problems, and heart failure. Hematology is at the forefront of the most dynamic developments in the area of molecular medicine, including the development of individualized, targeted therapies and technological advancements such as genome editing, gene and cellular therapies, and immune-based treatments.
Hematology and cardiovascular studies include development and angiogenesis, haematopoiesis, stem cell biology, molecular and cellular biology, physiology, metabolism, genetics and genomics, systems biology and omics approaches, regenerative medicine, including tissue bioengineering, and inter-organ communication.
The term "heart disease" refers to many different conditions that affect the heart's structure and function. Coronary heart disease is a condition in which the arteries of the heart cannot deliver enough oxygen-rich blood to the heart. In this condition, the coronary arteries become too narrow, or cholesterol blockages develop in the walls.
Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are present at birth and can affect the heart's structure and function. It can affect how blood flows through the heart and to the rest of the body. It is possible to have a CHD that is mild (such as a small hole in the heart) or severe (such as missing or poorly formed parts of the heart).
Cardiovascular surgery repairs damage to the heart and blood vessels. Damage can be caused by heart diseases or disorders, including heart failure and congenital heart defects. Surgery is a vital part of the treatment of many heart conditions.
The term cardiovascular disease refers to a group of diseases affecting the heart and blood vessels. One or more parts of the heart or blood vessels may be affected by these diseases. The disease may be symptomatic (physically present), or asymptomatic (not present at all).
Detecting cardiovascular disease is critical to effectively and efficiently treat the disease, ultimately lowering the risk of further complications. The purpose of cardiovascular diagnostic procedures is to identify heart disease and heart conditions. Upon diagnosis of heart disease or heart conditions, an appropriate treatment procedure can be initiated.
Many heart conditions can be diagnosed accurately with cardiac imaging. In addition to providing insight into future cardiovascular events, advanced imaging techniques can display three-dimensional images of the arteries. There are several types of new imaging techniques, such as coronary CTs, calcium scoring, and cardiac MRIs.