Diseases
myelodysplastic syndromes
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Myelodysplastic syndromes are a group of cancers in which immature blood cells in the bone marrow do not mature or become healthy blood cells. In a healthy person, the bone marrow makes blood stem cells (immature cells) that become mature blood cells over time. Enlarge. Anatomy of the bone
Symptoms
- shortness of breath
- fatigue
- unusual paleness (pallor), which occurs due to a low red blood cell count
- unusual bruising or bleeding, which occurs due to a low blood platelet count
- pinpoint-sized red spots just beneath the skin that are caused by bleeding
Causes
- most myelodysplastic syndromes have no known cause. others are caused by exposure to cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation, or to toxic chemicals, such as benzene.
Risk factors
- older age. most people with myelodysplastic syndromes are older than 60.
- previous treatment with chemotherapy or radiation.
- exposure to certain chemicals. chemicals, including benzene
Diagnosis
- blood tests.
- removing bone marrow for testing.
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is myelodysplastic syndromes?
Myelodysplastic syndromes are a group of cancers in which immature blood cells in the bone marrow do not mature or become healthy blood cells. In a healthy person, the bone marrow makes blood stem cells (immature cells) that become mature blood cells over time. Enlarge. Anatomy of the bone
What are the symptoms of myelodysplastic syndromes?
shortness of breath, fatigue, unusual paleness (pallor), which occurs due to a low red blood cell count, unusual bruising or bleeding, which occurs due to a low blood platelet count, pinpoint-sized red spots just beneath the skin that are caused by bleeding
What causes myelodysplastic syndromes?
most myelodysplastic syndromes have no known cause. others are caused by exposure to cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation, or to toxic chemicals, such as benzene.
Which medicines are used for myelodysplastic syndromes?
azacitidine, decitabine, lenalidomide
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