Disease of bone marrow cells

There are several subtypes of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), but they are all disorders in which the cells in the bone marrow don’t function normally and not enough normal blood cells are produced. MDS usually occurs in older people, typically starting after age 50. Myelodysplastic syndrome is rarely inherited. For many people, it develops without any known cause. In other people, MDS may develop after being exposed to chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Exposures to industrial chemicals such as benzene are also linked to the development of MDS.

Symptoms

The symptoms of myelodysplastic syndrome are related to the lack of normal blood cells.

—      Lack of red blood cells causes anemia (leading to fatigue and shortness of breath)

—      Lack of white blood cells leaves the body open to infection

—      Lack of platelet cells makes it difficult for the blood to clot (leading to unusual bruising or bleeding)

Different people are affected in different ways by myelodysplastic syndrome, and its symptoms can range from mild to very severe.