Myelodysplastic neoplasms · Diagnosis guide
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS)
Myelodysplastic syndromes, also called myelodysplastic neoplasms, are a group of cancers in which abnormal blood formation leads to low blood counts. Subtypes describe features of the marrow cells and their genetic changes. Teams combine these findings with risk assessments, symptoms, health and patient preferences when planning treatment. Donor transplantation may offer long-term disease control for selected patients, but supportive care and medicines are important options too. The pages below cover selected MDS subtypes; they are not the complete classification.
Explore the subtypes
The exact diagnosis helps explain the options. Your care team can clarify the name on your report.
- Condition guide
Myelodysplastic neoplasm with increased blasts
MDS with increased blasts is a myelodysplastic neoplasm with a raised proportion of immature blood cells. It often follows a higher-risk treatment pathway, including consideration of a donor stem cell transplant for eligible people.
Donor transplant option - Condition guide
Myelodysplastic neoplasm with biallelic TP53 inactivation
MDS with biallelic TP53 inactivation is a high-risk myelodysplastic neoplasm in which both copies of an important tumor-suppressor gene are affected. Donor transplantation may offer a chance of lasting disease control, but relapse remains a major concern.
Donor transplant option - Condition guide
Myelodysplastic neoplasm with low blasts and isolated 5q deletion
MDS with low blasts and a 5q deletion is a marrow cancer with loss of genetic material from chromosome 5. Anemia is often the main problem, and many people start with blood-supporting treatment rather than a donor transplant.
Limited transplant role - Condition guide
Myelodysplastic neoplasm with low blasts and SF3B1 mutation
MDS with low blasts and an SF3B1 mutation is a genetically defined marrow cancer that often causes anemia. Many people receive monitoring and treatment to improve blood production; donor transplantation is considered only in selected circumstances.
Limited transplant role
Understanding can become action.
Some patients need a blood stem cell donor. Others receive different treatment. Wherever your interest began, you can help JBF reach more people who may be able to donate.
Explore the official registry serving where you live. It explains who can join, how registration works and what donation involves.
Find your official registryIf joining is not right for you, a gift to the Jada Bascom Foundation supports education, outreach and referrals to official registries.
Donate to JBFSources and further reading
- Myelodysplastic Syndromes Treatment (PDQ) — National Cancer Institute
