Techniques for detecting chromosomal aberrations in myelodysplastic syndromes

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of heterogeneous hematologic diseases. Chromosomal aberrations are important for the initiation, development, and progression of MDS. Detection of chromosomal abnormalities in MDS is important for categorization, risk stratification, therapeutic selection, and prognosis evaluation of the disease. Recent progress of multiple techniques has brought powerful molecular cytogenetic information to reveal copy number variation, uniparental disomy, and complex chromosomal aberrations in MDS. In this review, we will introduce some common chromosomal aberrations in MDS and their clinical significance. Then we will explain the application, advantages, and limitations of different techniques for detecting chromosomal abnormalities in MDS. The information in this review may be helpful for clinicians to select appropriate methods in patient-related decision making.