Abstract
The myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a heterogeneous group of clonal hematopoietic stem cell disorders characterized by inefficient hematopoiesis. It mainly affects the elderly and results in cytopenias and dysplasia and a variable propensity to transform into acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Signs and symptoms are generally nonspecific and related to the underlying cytopenias. Diagnosis is made after careful evaluation of the patient’s clinical status, blood counts, bone marrow aspirate and biopsy, cytogenetics, and in some instances molecular studies. Correct diagnosis and staging is crucial as treatment decisions are based on the subtype and stage of disease. Treatment decisions are usually made based on comorbid diseases, the need for treating the underlying disease, supportive care, and modifying the natural cause of the disease to prevent, diminish, or delay the development of complications. Immediate treatment may be indicated for symptomatic cytopenias, while symptomatic patients are usually monitored over time for the development of cytopenias and other complications and in particular the development of acute myeloid leukemia. A range of more specific treatments have become available during the last decade that have had a positive impact on patient outcomes.
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Louw, V. (2015). The Myelodysplastic Syndromes. In: Droz, JP., Carme, B., Couppié, P., Nacher, M., Thiéblemont, C. (eds) Tropical Hemato-Oncology. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-18257-5_27
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-18257-5_27
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