Splenic infarction secondary to myelodysplastic syndrome: unravelling more etiologies

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Oncology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is a clonal hematopoietic stem cell disorder characterized by ineffective hematopoiesis, dysplasia, and apoptosis.
• Common clinical presentations of MDS include anemia, recurrent infections, and bleeding tendencies, typically in older adults.
• Splenic infarction is a rare condition, predominantly associated with myeloproliferative neoplasms and thromboembolic disorders.

Observation:

• A case of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) presenting with splenic infarction is described.
• Splenic infarction has not been previously reported as a clinical manifestation of MDS.

Findings:

• The case highlights splenic infarction as a potential, albeit rare, complication in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome.
• This presentation expands the spectrum of clinical manifestations associated with MDS.

Implications:

• Recognition of splenic infarction in MDS is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.
• Further research may elucidate the underlying mechanisms linking MDS and splenic infarction.
• This case broadens the differential diagnosis for splenic infarction, particularly in elderly patients with hematologic abnormalities.