The myelodysplastic syndromes: morphology, risk assessment, and clinical management (2002)

The Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS) represent a group of potentially acute myeloid leukemic disorders. There exists a delicate balance between increased apoptosis and proliferation of the leukemic hematopoietic stem cell that permits many patients to survive for years. When the balance shifts towards proliferation AML develops with a poor outcome for most but not all patients. I will review the latest proposals from the W.H.O. in classification, including pediatric MDS, prognostic factors and response criteria. Then I will present a strategy for the management of low risk patients with supportive care or low intensity treatment (cytokines, Immune modulation, anti-VEGF agents) and finally chemotherapy and intensive therapy with auto and allo BMT.