Myelodysplastic Syndrome

What is Myelodysplastic Syndrome?

Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) is a group of bone marrow disorders where the bone marrow produces abnormal, poorly functioning blood cells. Over time, MDS can lead to severe anemia, infections, and an increased risk of developing acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Myelodysplastic Syndrome can be diagnosed by an oncologist.

Myelodysplastic syndrome Signs

• Aging: Most common in elderly individuals.
• Prior Chemotherapy/Radiation: Increases the risk of treatment-related MDS.
• Exposure to Chemicals: Benzene, pesticides, and tobacco smoke are linked to MDS.
• Genetic Predisposition: Family history of blood disorders.
• Immune System Disorders: Autoimmune diseases may increase MDS risk.

Myelodysplastic Syndrome Symptoms

• Anemia (Low RBCs): Fatigue, shortness of breath, paleness, dizziness
• Neutropenia (Low WBCs): Frequent infections, fever, slow wound healing
• Thrombocytopenia (Low Platelets): Easy bruising, nosebleeds, prolonged bleeding
• Bone Pain and Weakness: Due to abnormal bone marrow activity
• Unexplained Weight Loss and Night Sweats: Seen in advanced stages

Myelodysplastic Syndrome associated conditions

• Dysplasia (abnormal blood cell shapes and sizes) in lab tests
• Pancytopenia (low counts of all blood cell types)
• Increased blasts (immature cells), indicating leukemia risk

Diagnosis of Myelodysplastic Syndromes

MDS is diagnosed by an oncologist.

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): Identifies low blood cell counts and abnormal cells
• Bone Marrow Biopsy: Confirms MDS by analyzing cell abnormalities
• Cytogenetic Testing: Detects genetic mutations linked to MDS
• Flow Cytometry: Examines the immune profile of abnormal blood cells

Myelodysplastic Syndrome Treatment

1. Supportive Therapy

• Blood Transfusions: Manage anemia and prevent complications.
• Growth Factors (EPO, G-CSF): Stimulate bone marrow to produce healthy cells.

2. Targeted Therapy and Chemotherapy

• Hypomethylating Agents (Azacitidine, Decitabine): Slow disease progression.
• Lenalidomide: Used for MDS with chromosome 5q deletion.
• Intensive Chemotherapy: For high-risk Myelodysplastic Syndrome Cases.

3. Bone Marrow Transplant (Stem Cell Transplantation)

• Curative option for young patients with severe MDS.
• Best results with matched sibling donors.

4. Clinical Trials and Experimental Therapies

• Gene therapy and immunotherapies are being explored for future treatment options.

Why Choose Aster Hospitals for Myelodysplastic Syndrome Treatment?

Aster Hospitals provide specialized hematology care, expert oncologists, advanced bone marrow transplant units, and personalized treatment plans. Their cutting-edge diagnostics, access to clinical trials, and holistic patient support ensure the best survival outcomes for MDS patients.