myelodysplastinen

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of blood cancers in which immature blood cells in the bone marrow do not mature or become healthy blood cells. These immature cells, also called blasts, do not function properly and are destroyed in the bone marrow or early in their circulation. This leaves less room for healthy blood cells, leading to low blood counts.

The exact cause of MDS is often unknown, but risk factors can include age, previous chemotherapy or radiation therapy, and exposure to certain chemicals. Symptoms can vary depending on the type of blood cell affected and can include fatigue, shortness of breath, frequent infections, and easy bruising or bleeding.

Diagnosis typically involves a blood test to check blood counts and a bone marrow biopsy to examine the cells. MDS is classified based on the appearance of the cells in the bone marrow and the specific genetic abnormalities present.

Treatment for MDS depends on the severity of the disease, the patient's age and overall health, and the specific type of MDS. Options can include supportive care such as blood transfusions or growth factors, medications to stimulate blood cell production, and in some cases, stem cell transplantation. Some forms of MDS can progress to acute myeloid leukemia (AML).