DISEASE SCANNER
Global Incurable Diseases Tracker
Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS)
A group of clonal hematopoietic stem cell disorders characterized by ineffective hematopoiesis, cytopenias, and risk of progression to acute myeloid leukemia. More common in elderly. Primary or therapy-related (after chemotherapy/radiation).
300.0K
15
Symptoms
Treatment Options
Risk Factors
Diagnostic Methods
- 1Biopsy
- 2Imaging (CT, MRI, PET)
- 3Tumor markers
- 4Genetic testing
- 5Endoscopy
- 6Blood tests
- 7Screening programs
Prognosis
Very heterogeneous prognosis by IPSS-R score. Very low risk: median survival 8.8 years, 10% transform to AML. Very high risk: median survival 0.8 years, 80% transform to AML. Supportive care (transfusions, growth factors) improves quality of life. Hypomethylating agents (azacitidine) extend survival in high-risk disease. Allogeneic stem cell transplant is only curative option but has high treatment-related mortality. Genetic mutations (TP53, ASXL1) predict poorer outcomes.
Prevention
- Smoking cessation
- Sun protection
- Healthy diet
- Regular exercise
- Vaccination (HPV, HBV)
- Screening programs
- Limit alcohol
- Maintain healthy weight
Research Status
Hypomethylating agents (azacitidine, decitabine) for higher-risk. Lenalidomide for 5q- syndrome. Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents. Allogeneic stem cell transplant only curative. Supportive care with transfusions and growth factors.
Affected Countries
Sources
- https://www.cancer.gov
- https://www.who.int/cancer
- https://www.cancer.org
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.