Management of patients with lower-risk myelodysplastic syndromes

Andrew M. Brunner*, Heather A. Leitch, Arjan A. van de Loosdrecht, Nicolas Bonadies

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a heterogeneous group of hematopoietic stem cell disorders characterized by ineffective hematopoiesis with abnormal blood cell development (dysplasia) leading to cytopenias and an increased risk for progression to acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Patients with MDS can generally be classified as lower- (LR-MDS) or higher-risk (HR-MDS). As treatment goals for patients with LR-MDS and those with HR-MDS differ significantly, appropriate diagnosis, classification, and follow-up are critical for correct disease management. In this review, we focus on the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment options, as well as the prediction of the disease course and monitoring of treatment response in patients with LR-MDS. We discuss how next-generation sequencing, increasing knowledge on mechanisms of MDS pathogenesis, and novel therapies may change the current treatment landscape in LR-MDS and why structured assessments of responses, toxicities, and patient-reported outcomes should be incorporated into routine clinical practice.
Original languageEnglish
Article number166
JournalBlood cancer journal
Volume12
Issue number12
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Dec 2022

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