Myelodysplastic syndromes: Where do we stand?

Abstract

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are fairly common hematological disorder of elderly. They are a group of clonal malignant hematopoietic stem cell disorders characterized by dysplastic morphology, variable cytopenia and a variable threat of transformation to AML. These dysplastic changes are a result of chromosomal abnormalities and somatic mutations. MDS is the most common myeloid neoplasm of the older adults with median age at diagnosis being 72 years and an average incidence rate of 0.2 per 100,000 people per year. MDS is diagnosed and classified according to the WHO 2008 classification system, which utilizes peripheral blood and bone marrow findings. Other essential investigations include flow cytometry, genetic profile and chromosomal analysis. Various prognostic scoring system have been developed which help guide the treatment. Treatment of complications associated with MDS also forms an essential component of the management of this disease.