1. Home
  2. Expert
  3. Steven Ketchel

expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Steven Ketchel, M.D.

Hematologist-Oncologist

Dr. Steven Ketchel M.D. is a top Hematologist-Oncologist in Tucson, . With a passion for the field and an unwavering commitment to their specialty, Dr. Steven Ketchel M.D. is an expert in changing the lives of their patients for the better. Through their designated cause and expertise in the field, Dr. Steven Ketchel M.D. is a prime example of a true leader in healthcare. As a leader and expert in their field, Dr. Steven Ketchel M.D. is passionate about enhancing patient quality of life. They embody the values of communication, safety, and trust when dealing directly with patients. In Tucson, AZ, Dr. Steven Ketchel M.D. is a true asset to their field and dedicated to the profession of medicine.
Learn More About Me
53 years Experience
Dr. Steven Ketchel, M.D.
  • Tucson, AZ
  • Univ of Az Coll of Med, Tucson Az
  • Accepting new patients

Do I have leukemia?

It is unlikely that you have leukemia. Leukemia usually is a disease of a single type of white blood cell, not of multiple types. None of your other signs or symptoms indicate READ MORE
It is unlikely that you have leukemia. Leukemia usually is a disease of a single type of white blood cell, not of multiple types. None of your other signs or symptoms indicate leukemia either.

What does high hemoglobin mean in a child?

High hemoglobin is called polycythemia. It can be a primary problem called polycythemia Vera or can be caused by lung disease or kidney disease. If it is truly too high and the READ MORE
High hemoglobin is called polycythemia. It can be a primary problem called polycythemia Vera or can be caused by lung disease or kidney disease. If it is truly too high and the cause is not easily determined, the child should be referred to a pediatric hematologist.

Hemoglobin levels?

Five transfusions should be enough but you need to check the hemoglobin and take more if necessary. The other question is why your hemoglobin is so low. If you have heavy periods READ MORE
Five transfusions should be enough but you need to check the hemoglobin and take more if necessary. The other question is why your hemoglobin is so low. If you have heavy periods talk to your gynecologist, otherwise to your primary care. 


Is high white blood count serious?

An elevated White Blood Count can be a sign of inflammation or infection. It should be looked into if it is very high but the high WBC itself is not dangerous. Very high is READ MORE
An elevated White Blood Count can be a sign of inflammation or infection. It should be looked into if it is very high but the high WBC itself is not dangerous. Very high is more than 15,000 and you should see your primary care physician for evaluation if it is elevated.

Is thalassemia genetic?

It can be.

Should I be concerned?

It depends if the kappa light chain number is stable , which is not likely a problem, or if it is rising which is a problem. If it is rising you should be referred to a hematologist. READ MORE
It depends if the kappa light chain number is stable , which is not likely a problem, or if it is rising which is a problem. If it is rising you should be referred to a hematologist.

Blood test results?

You have a basically normal complete blood count,SMAC and lipid panel. The urinalysis suggests some mild irritation but not clear infection. Contact your primary care physician READ MORE
You have a basically normal complete blood count,SMAC and lipid panel. The urinalysis suggests some mild irritation but not clear infection. Contact your primary care physician if you have further questions.

Severe middle to upper back pain?

I also am not sure as to what this pain is caused by but the location and the fact that pressure and heat help suggests that it is musculoskeletal. I would try lying on your back READ MORE
I also am not sure as to what this pain is caused by but the location and the fact that pressure and heat help suggests that it is musculoskeletal. I would try lying on your back for 30 minutes and see if that improves the pain. If so you can repeat that treatment. If not I would talk with your primary care physician.

High platelets?

Platlets help in forming clots. The count is sometimes a little high. It can be high secondary to infection or anemia. If it continues to rise it can be a sign of primary thrombocytosis, READ MORE
Platlets help in forming clots. The count is sometimes a little high. It can be high secondary to infection or anemia. If it continues to rise it can be a sign of primary thrombocytosis, a platelet count that is too high and needs treatment by a hematologist.

What can be the cause of low platelet count?

If it is below 50,000 it could dangerous. Otherwise it is low for several possible reasons and I would see a hematologist if it is below 200,000.

What is the best medicine for treating anemia?

The most important question is why are you anemic? If that question has been answered and you are not bleeding, then iron pils are a good medicine=20

Chronic wound?

Your FBS is a bit high. Talk to your physician as to whether this wound could not be healing because of diabetes.

HIV modes of transmission?

If you have never had a sexual relationship or used intravenous drugs you do not need an HIV test.

Lymphadenopathy treatment?

If you have that much lymphadenopathy, I would recommend another biopsy and flow cytometry.

How can I lower my hemoglobin levels?

The normal level of hemoglobin for a male is 14-18, for a female 12-16. If your levels are much higher you should see a hematologist for a diagnosis as to the cause and potential READ MORE
The normal level of hemoglobin for a male is 14-18, for a female 12-16. If your levels are much higher you should see a hematologist for a diagnosis as to the cause and potential treatment.

How to treat iron deficiency anemia?

Your mother should not have iron deficiency anemia. It is caused by blood loss which needs to be investigated by a physician or can be caused by poor production of red blood cells READ MORE
Your mother should not have iron deficiency anemia. It is caused by blood loss which needs to be investigated by a physician or can be caused by poor production of red blood cells which requires seeing a hematologist. The pills for iron deficiency are oral iron. Which should not cause facial swelling nor should they have any effect on cholesterol. 


When should you go to the ER for anemia?

Severe anemia can cause shortness of breath. If you have not had shortness of breath previously, I would go to the Emergency Room.

What is the treatment for thrombosis in the leg?

The thrombosis in the leg is not serious itself but it is treated with blood thinners to prevent it from traveling to the lungs where it could cause a blood clot that could be READ MORE
The thrombosis in the leg is not serious itself but it is treated with blood thinners to prevent it from traveling to the lungs where it could cause a blood clot that could be serious.

Rh negative?

A+Rh- is rare, less than 10% of blood types. It is thus rare for you both to have that blood type but not impossible as the blood types are inherited from parents just as other READ MORE
A+Rh- is rare, less than 10% of blood types. It is thus rare for you both to have that blood type but not impossible as the blood types are inherited from parents just as other traits are.

Can you walk after a bone marrow biopsy?

Yes, you can. There is only moderate pain.