Understanding Myelodysplastic Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

What is it?

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of disorders characterized by blood cells that do not work properly or are not formed properly. It’s a result of anything that interrupts bone marrow function, most of them are unknown. Sometimes, it could be caused by radiation, chemotherapy, or exposure to toxic chemicals. It is more common above the age of 60. People with MDS are at greater risk for developing leukemia.

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Additional names

This group contains additional names:
- MDS

Signs & symptoms

Myelodysplastic syndromes symptoms may include fatigue, shortness of breath, pallor, anemia, easy bruising, easy bleeding, low blood platelet count, petechiae on the skin and frequent infections.

Diagnosis

Myelodysplastic syndromes diagnosis includes blood work,and a bone marrow aspiration or biopsy.

Treatment

Myelodysplastic syndrome's treatment focus is on slowing the disease, easing symptoms and preventing complications. Some of the treatment may include blood transfusions, medications such as growth factors and blood cells stimulators as well as immunosuppressive. Revlimid is a medication given to who’s MDS is associated with a gene mutation of 5q deletion. A bone marrow transplant is the only treatment option that offers the potential of a cure for myelodysplastic syndromes. But this treatment carries a high risk of serious complications and it's generally reserved for people who are healthy enough to endure it.

☝️ This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before making any medical decision.

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Source of Information - We analyze big data of more than 23 million patients de-identified medical records from the following sources:

National Institution of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ University of Illinois hospital