Pronunciation: [hˈiːmə] (IPA) 
The word "haema" can be spelled in different ways, depending on the language or context. In English, it is more commonly spelled as "heme" and is pronounced as /hiːm/ or /hɛm/. In Greek, it is spelled as "αίμα" (aíma) and is pronounced as /ˈema/. The original Greek word, however, is spelled as "αἷμα" and is pronounced as /haima/. The spelling of "haema" is an attempt to transliterate the Greek word using English spelling rules.
Haema, also spelled as hema, is a term derived from the Greek word "haima," meaning blood. It is commonly used in various scientific and medical contexts to refer to anything related to blood or blood cells.
In the field of biology, haema often pertains to the study of blood composition, properties, functions, and disorders. It encompasses the study of different blood components such as red blood cells (erythrocytes), white blood cells (leukocytes), platelets (thrombocytes), as well as plasma and other blood-related matter. Researchers and scientists specializing in haema delve into areas such as hematopoiesis (the process of blood cell formation), blood clotting mechanisms, various blood disorders (such as anemia, leukemia, or hemophilia), and immunology.
Moreover, haema is closely linked to the field of transfusion medicine and blood banking. It involves the collection, preservation, typing, testing, and storage of blood and its components for transfusion purposes, ensuring compatibility between the donor and recipient to prevent adverse reactions.
From a clinical perspective, haema plays a crucial role in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of several diseases. Blood tests are commonly employed to assess general health status, detect infections, measure nutrient levels, evaluate organ functions, monitor the progression of illnesses, as well as identify potential genetic or immunological abnormalities.
Overall, haema is a comprehensive term encompassing the scientific understanding, investigation, and application of all aspects related to blood and its components, playing a crucial role in different disciplines, including biology, medicine, immunology, and transfusion medicine.
