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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.
53 years Experience
Dr. Steven Ketchel, M.D.
  • Tucson, AZ
  • Univ of Az Coll of Med, Tucson Az
  • Accepting new patients

Is there a genetic likelihood of bone marrow cancer if my grandfather had it?

The chance of your inheriting a gene for this is infinitessimally small.

What is the likely cause(s) of having both B12 anemia and iron deficiency anemia simultaneously?

Both are caused by inadequate dietary intake. Iron deficiency anemia can be exacerbated by menstruation if your are still menstruating. A low B12 level can cause pernicious anemia READ MORE
Both are caused by inadequate dietary intake. Iron deficiency anemia can be exacerbated by menstruation if your are still menstruating. A low B12 level can cause pernicious anemia which may look like iron deficiency. Iron supplements should work . Your physician should also check to se that you are not losing blood in your stool. If you do not respond to these treatments you should see a hematologist.

My mother’s anemia symptoms seem to be getting worse, but her vitals are normal?

Anemia is usually caused by iron deficiency. Iron deficiency can be caused by blood loss in the stool as well as loss from menstruation. Depending on her level of anemia, she could READ MORE
Anemia is usually caused by iron deficiency. Iron deficiency can be caused by blood loss in the stool as well as loss from menstruation. Depending on her level of anemia, she could have weakness and headaches and a fast heart rate. Severe anemia could cause trouble thinking. These are the effects on the heart and brain that do not show up on tests of those organs. She may need to have more iron replacement. If that doesn't work, she should see a hematologist.

How do you test for bone cancer in children and adults?

Primary bone cancer is unusual in children and adults. If someone has persistent bone pain that is unexplained, a bone scan can be done, or an MRI of the area.

Does radiation shorten your life?

If radiation is given to a malignant tumor it should lengthen your life. If you are exposed to radiation that is not for treatment, that radiation, like the effects of an atomic READ MORE
If radiation is given to a malignant tumor it should lengthen your life. If you are exposed to radiation that is not for treatment, that radiation, like the effects of an atomic bomb, would definitely shorten your life.

Why is my daughter cold all the time?

I am not a pediatrician so I suggest you speak with her physician. Thyroid could be a problem as could other metabolic disorders.

What is the most common blood type?

O positive is the most common blood type

How long does radiation stay in your body after cancer treatment?

External beam radiation therapy passes through the body quickly and does not stay in the body. The side effects may take longer to resolve. If your daughter still has symptoms, READ MORE
External beam radiation therapy passes through the body quickly and does not stay in the body. The side effects may take longer to resolve. If your daughter still has symptoms, discuss it with her radiation oncologist.

CBC blood?

If your platelet count is normal I would not be concerned with the other values as your primary physician told you.

What diagnostic tests will be needed?

I am not sure whey you will br visiting the hematologist. Without that knowledge I would say that ou will likely have a CBC and SMA and whatever specialty tests the hematologist READ MORE
I am not sure whey you will br visiting the hematologist. Without that knowledge I would say that ou will likely have a CBC and SMA and whatever specialty tests the hematologist feels are necessary.

How long does a blood transfusion take?

It depends how quickly the iv takes to run, usually about 30-60 minutes. It takes extra time to do the cross-match to make sure he is receiving compatible blood.

What is the likelihood of a child having autoimmune hemolytic anemia?

It depends on what type of anemia run-in your family. The incidence of autoimmune hemolytic anemia in children under 20 is 1 per 1 million children

How does having hemophilia affect my child's life?

As you probably know, hemophilia is an inherited disease. Hemophilia is caused by a lack of necessary clotting factors. This will cause your son to bleed much more easily than READ MORE
As you probably know, hemophilia is an inherited disease. Hemophilia is caused by a lack of necessary clotting factors. This will cause your son to bleed much more easily than those who have those factors. Children are often injured at home or school when they play, and careful attention needs to be paid to those injuries to insure they do not cause bleeding which may be dangerous. I hope you have been referred to a pediatric hematologist or hemophilia center who can educate you about the many risks a child with hemophilia may have in their daily life activities.

Atypical Lymphocytes?

I agree with your doctor. A few abnormal lymphocytes could be from a recent infection or just an aggressive tech noting some mild abnormalities. I would repeat your count in READ MORE
I agree with your doctor. A few abnormal lymphocytes could be from a recent infection or just an aggressive tech noting some mild abnormalities. I would repeat your count in 6-12 months.

Low hemoglobin and tiredness?

I don't know why you have a poor appetite, but I would try eating small amounts six times daily. Red blood cells carry oxygen. Your fatigue, and likely your chest pain and palpitations READ MORE
I don't know why you have a poor appetite, but I would try eating small amounts six times daily. Red blood cells carry oxygen. Your fatigue, and likely your chest pain and palpitations are likely related to your anemia, which is there because of your thalassemia trait and menstruation limiting the oxygen carried to the tissues of your body. Your physician can try a red blood cell transfusion. You should follow that with medication to remove iron from your body.

Does radiation lower your immune system?

Yes, radiation may lower your immunity but the benefits of radiation much outweigh the side effects.

What blood tests detect blood cancers?

The CBC (complete blood count) is most likely to detect blood cancers.

Is it dangerous to have a high platelet count?

It depends how high the count is. if it is high moral or just above normal it is fine. If it is very high then she should see a pediatric hematologist for evaluation.

How common is thrombophilia in children?

Thrombophiia in children is unusual, about 15 per 100,000. It is usually caused by an injury or an inherited disease.

Platelet count 430?

The normal adult platelet count is 150,000 to 450,000. Yours is normal and no indication of cancer