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Dr. Irem Eldem, MD is a pediatric oncologist in Springfield, MO specializing in pediatric hematology/oncology and general pediatrics. This provider graduated from Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine. Dr. Irem Eldem, MD is affiliated with Washington University Physicians, St. Louis Children's Hospital, BJC HealthCare, Washington University in St. Louis (WUSTL) and Barnes-Jewish Hospital.
1011 E Montclair Street
Springfield, MO 65807
1 Childrens Place Suite 9
Saint Louis, MO 63110
Anemia
Anemia is the most common blood disorder. It occurs when the body does not have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to the tissues. Blood loss, insufficient red blood cell production, and red blood cell destruction are the three main causes of anemia. These issues may arise from such conditions as iron deficiency, heavy periods, ulcers, kidney disease, as well as some forms of cancer.
An individual with anemia will have the following symptoms: shortness of breath, weakness, dizziness, cold hands or feet, paleness, and irritability. Anemia is diagnosed when blood tests show low counts for hemoglobin, which is the protein responsible for carrying oxygen to different tissues throughout the body.
Treatments for anemia are dependent on the kind of anemia an individual has. For example, iron supplementation may correct iron deficiency anemia. For anemia caused by chronic kidney failure, chemotherapy treatments, and HIV/AIDS, a group of medications called erythropoiesis-stimulating agents may be prescribed.
Thrombocytopenia (Low Platelet Count)
Thrombocytopenia is a disorder where people have too few platelets. With too few platelets in the bloodstream, the blood is unable to properly clot. People with thrombocytopenia may experience prolonged external and internal bleeding. Large purple bruises (ecchymoses) and small red skin spots (petechiae) in the skin and mouth are common in those with thrombocytopenia. Other symptoms of the disorder include bleeding gums, blood in bodily fluids, and fatigue. Thrombocytopenia most often arises from a different condition or treatment, such as alcoholism, autoimmune disease, cancer treatments, viruses (such as Hepatitis C and HIV), bone marrow diseases (such as leukemia and aplastic anemia), enlarged spleen, and exposure to toxic chemicals. In rare cases, thrombocytopenia is inherited.
If a doctor suspects a patient has a thrombocytopenia, a complete blood count (CBC) or platelet count test helps determine the concentration of platelets in a person's blood at a given time. Thrombocytopenia can be diagnosed by hematologists using advanced tests on platelet samples. Flow cytometry tests detect abnormalities by evaluating the characteristics of a platelet sample using targeted lasers and lights.
Treatments for low platelet counts include steroids like Prednisone, that can assist with platelet production. If a patient's low platelet count is caused by spleen problems, spleen removal (splenectomy) may be recommended. To treat the prolonged bleeding caused by thrombocytopenia, doctors frequently prescribe Dempressin, a hormone that promotes blood clotting. Antifibrinolytic medications such as tranexamic acid may also aid in the promotion of clotting and the prevention of bleeding. For patients with severe platelet disorders (either low platelet count and dysfunctional platelets), blood transfusions may be prescribed. Platelet blood transfusions deliver donated platelets to patients intravenously, replenishing the volume of functioning platelets.
Patients can also modify their lifestyle to better manage their disorder and minimize complications. Patients with low blood counts should avoid blood-thinning medications, alcohol, and activities that could lead to injury. Many people with thrombocytopenia can live healthy and fulfilling lives with proper treatment and precautions.
Dr. Irem Eldem, MD graduated from Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine. This provider completed residency at Washington University Medical Center in St. Louis. This provider is certified by the Board Certification: Pediatrics/Pediatrics and has a state license in Missouri.
Medical School: Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine
Residency: Washington University Medical Center in St. Louis
Board Certification: Board Certification: Pediatrics/Pediatrics
Licensed In: Missouri
Dr. Irem Eldem, MD is associated with these hospitals and organizations:
Dr. Irem Eldem, MD appears to accept the following insurance providers: Aetna US Access, Aetna National Advantage Program, Aetna Elect Choice, Aetna Open Choice PPO, United Healthcare, Aetna Open Access HMO, Aetna, MHBP, Aetna Choice POS II, Humana, Aetna Select, Aetna Elect Choice EPO, Coventry, Cigna, Blue California, Aetna Open Access PPO, Aetna Medicare HMO and Aetna Medicare PPO.
According to our sources, Dr. Irem Eldem, MD accepts the following insurance providers:
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Dr. Irem Eldem practices pediatric hematology/oncology and general pediatrics. Dr. Eldem's areas of expertise include bleeding, thrombophilia (clotting disorders), and anemia. Dr. Eldem speaks Turkish. Dr. Eldem is affiliated with Washington University Physicians, St. Louis Children's Hospital, and Barnes-Jewish Hospital. Dr. Eldem's practice in Springfield, MO is open to new patients as reported by Doctor.com.
