Growth factor see colony stimulating factor. Go to top of page H Haematocrit the percentage of the blood made up of red blood cells. Haematology the study of blood and its disorders. Haemoglobin the part of red cells that carries oxygen to tissues. Hepatitis inflammation of the liver.
Hickman catheter see central venous line.
HLA see human leukocyte antigen. Hyper- excessive, increased. Hyperalimentation intravenous feeding that provides patients with all essential nutrients when they're unable to feed themselves. Also called hyperal, TPN or total parenteral nutrition. Hyperpigmentation darkening of the skin.