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Updated: Feb 16, 2026

Use of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation to Assess the Origin of Myelodysplastic Syndrome
Published on: October 3, 2018
Management of older adults with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS)
Marlise R Luskin1, Gregory A Abel1
1Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Dana 2056, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
Abstract:
The myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a varied group of hematologic neoplasms that lead to bone marrow failure, and also carry a risk of progression to acute myeloid leukemia. Patients with MDS suffer significant impairments to both their quality of life and survival. Age is the dominant risk factor for the development of MDS, with a median age at diagnosis over 70years. Consequently, patients with MDS frequently have concurrent comorbidities and/or frailty which may be coincident or related to the disease itself. Disease characteristics, degree of comorbidity, and presence of frailty all impact prognosis. Treatment of MDS focuses on supportive care, with disease-modifying approaches (chemotherapy and allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation) reserved for fit patients with high-risk disease. Care of patients with MDS requires understanding the disease in the context of an older population, and tailoring approaches to both disease risk and patient suitability for therapy.
Insights
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are bone marrow failure disorders common in older adults, impacting quality of life and survival. Treatment must consider patient frailty and comorbidities alongside disease risk.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Oncology
- Geriatrics
Background:
- Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are clonal hematopoietic stem cell disorders.
- MDS leads to bone marrow failure and can progress to acute myeloid leukemia.
- The median age of MDS diagnosis is over 70, with frequent comorbidities and frailty.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the characteristics of MDS in an elderly population.
- To discuss the impact of comorbidities and frailty on prognosis and treatment.
- To emphasize tailored therapeutic approaches for older MDS patients.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of myelodysplastic syndromes in elderly patients.
- Analysis of prognostic factors including age, comorbidities, and frailty.
- Evaluation of current treatment strategies for MDS.
Main Results:
- MDS predominantly affects individuals over 70 years old.
- Comorbidities and frailty significantly influence MDS prognosis and treatment decisions.
- Supportive care is primary; disease-modifying therapies are reserved for fit patients.
Conclusions:
- Optimal management of MDS in older adults requires a comprehensive assessment of disease risk, comorbidities, and patient frailty.
- Treatment strategies should be individualized to balance therapeutic benefits with potential toxicities.
- Geriatric principles are essential for managing MDS patients effectively.
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