What is Myelodysplastic Syndrome?

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of heterogeneous clonal hematopoietic stem cell disorders originating from hematopoietic stem cells. Their main characteristics include abnormal differentiation and development of myeloid cells, leading to ineffective hematopoiesis, refractory cytopenias, and bone marrow failure. MDS carries a significant risk of progression to acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The natural course and prognosis of the disease vary among individuals, and treatment should be individualized. Diagnosis of MDS relies on specific diagnostic criteria, such as the Vienna criteria, and requires comprehensive evaluation of clinical manifestations, laboratory findings, bone marrow smear analysis, and other relevant information. The exact cause of MDS remains unclear, but it may be associated with multiple factors, including prolonged exposure to toxic substances, ionizing radiation, viral infections, genetic predispositions, and certain medications.