Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)

Overview

In MDS, the bone marrow makes blood cells that don't work right.

Treatment ranges from watching to medicines to stem cell transplant.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Tiredness

Less common

• Easy bruising
• Infections

When to get medical care

Causes

Marrow changes.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Older age
• Past chemo

Possible complications

• Leukemia (blood cancer): MDS can turn into AML
• Serious infections: From low white blood cells

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Blood count:
• Bone marrow test:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Avoid infections
• Report fevers right away
• Keep transfusion appointments

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a hematologist (blood doctor).

Living with it

Support groups and helplines

• Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Free NIH information on rare diseases, including where to find experts and patient groups.
• National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD): Patient groups, help finding care, and aid programs for rare diseases.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Adults over 65: Most common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Many people live years with treatment.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)