What is Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS)?

MDS is a group of blood cancers caused by a malfunctioning of the bone marrow, which leads to a reduction of the number of healthy blood cells circulating in the body.

The cells that can be affected are:

• Red blood cells – which carry oxygen to organs and tissues throughout the body
• White blood cells – which protect the body by fighting against infections
• Platelets – which help the body to form clots to stop bleeding and bruising

How are MDS Classified?

MDS are classified according to how blood cells and the bone marrow look under the microscope, as well as other factors such as:

• Blood cell counts
• Percentage of early forms of blood cells in the bone marrow
• Risk of the disease developing into Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML). Myeloid cells perform different functions, such as fighting bacterial infections and defending the body against parasites

The medical terms used to describe the types of MDS can be difficult to understand. Do ask your doctor to explain how MDS is classified in your case.

Who is at Risk?

MDS most commonly affects the elderly, although it can occur at any age. Most patients do not have any identifiable risk. It is not usually passed down to children. Some more common risk factors include:

• Prior exposure to chemotherapy and radiation therapy due to treatment of other cancers
• Exposure to toxic chemicals like benzene

• Symptoms of anemia such as tiredness and breathlessness with mild exertion
• Having more infections than usual, because of a lack of healthy white blood cells
• Unusual bleeding caused by too few platelets in the blood. This may include bruising, heavy periods in women, bleeding gums, nosebleeds and blood spots or rashes on the skin

Many people with MDS, however, do not have any symptoms. You may be diagnosed after a routine blood test.