myelodysplastic syndrome
Also written as: MDS — myelodysplastic syndrome
A group of clonal hematopoietic disorders characterized by dysplastic changes in bone marrow cells and peripheral blood cytopenias.
Full Definition
Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) refers to a heterogeneous group of clonal hematopoietic stem cell disorders characterized by dysplastic cellular morphology in bone marrow and peripheral blood, along with cytopenias despite normal or increased cellularity in the bone marrow. These disorders represent a spectrum of diseases that may progress to acute myeloid leukemia. MDS primarily affects older adults and is often secondary to prior chemotherapy or radiation exposure. The condition is diagnosed through bone marrow examination showing dysplastic changes and specific cytogenetic abnormalities.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as MDS in clinical contexts. Avoid the outdated term 'preleukemia' in formal documentation.
In Context
- "The patient's bone marrow biopsy revealed dysplastic changes consistent with myelodysplastic syndrome." — Pathology report
- "Treatment options for high-risk myelodysplastic syndrome include hypomethylating agents and allogeneic stem cell transplantation." — Treatment protocol