Myelodysplastic syndrome (bone marrow failure)
About Myelodysplastic syndrome (bone marrow failure)
A syndrome where the stem cells in the bone marrow fail to develop normally into the white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets needed for normal bodily function. There is a range of severity with some patients experiencing serious low red blood cells, excessive bleeding, and an increase in infections. This disorder can be life threatening and in some cases it can progress to leukemia. The disease is most often seen in patients greater than 60 and is more common in men. The following conditions increase the risk of this disorder: previous treatment for cancer, a family history of the disease, smoking, and exposure to certain chemicals.Symptoms
Fatigue, pin point reddish-purple skin blotches, frequent infections, easy bruising, shortness of breath, pale skin (anemia).Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests will be done to determine the number and types of blood cells. A bone marrow biopsy will be done to establish the diagnosis, evaluate the stem cells and look for cancers and genetic defects.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC).
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Therapy depends on the severity of disease and the chromosomal defect present but may include: erythropoietin or darbepoetin to stimulate red blood cell production, azacitidine (Vidaza) and decitabine (Dacogen) to stimulate stem cell transformation into mature cells, and lenalidomide (Revlimid) in cases with a specific chromosome abnormality. Other treatment options include: blood transfusion, chemotherapy and stem cell transplantation.Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Family Practice · Hematology and Oncology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Myelodysplastic syndrome (bone marrow failure).