Myelodysplasia

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of diverse bone marrow disorders in which the bone marrow does not produce enough healthy blood cells. MDS is often referred to as a “bone marrow failure disorder”. MDS is primarily a disease of the elderly (most patients are older than age 65), but younger patients can also be diagnosed with the disease.

Signs and Symptoms

The most common symptoms of MDS include fatigue and weakness, shortness of breath, pale skin, and easy bruising and bleeding. This is due to a decrease in the number of red blood cells (anemia), white blood cells (leukopenia), and platelets (thrombocytopenia) in the blood.

Causes

The exact cause of MDS is unknown. However, certain factors are associated with an increased risk of developing the disease. These include previous treatment with chemotherapy or radiation therapy, exposure to certain chemicals (such as tobacco smoke, pesticides, and solvents), and exposure to heavy metals (such as mercury or lead).

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of MDS is based on a medical history, physical examination, and various tests. These tests may include a complete blood count (CBC), bone marrow biopsy, and cytogenetic analysis.

Treatment

Treatment for MDS depends on the type of MDS, the severity of symptoms, and the patient's overall health. Treatment options may include supportive care (such as blood transfusions and medications to increase blood cell counts), drug therapy, and stem cell transplantation.

Prognosis

The prognosis for MDS varies widely and depends on several factors, including the type of MDS, the severity of symptoms, and the patient's overall health. Some people with MDS have a good prognosis and can live for many years with the disease, while others may have a poor prognosis.

See Also

• Anemia
• Leukopenia
• Thrombocytopenia
• Bone Marrow Biopsy
• Stem Cell Transplantation

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