Enhancing our chances of picking a winner in higher-risk myelodysplastic syndromes

Hypomethylating agents remain the current standard of care for patients with higher-risk myelodysplastic syndromes. Adès et al. report outcomes from a randomised 'pick-a-winner' study design that examined the addition of either lenalidomide, valproic acid or idarubicin in combination with azacitidine, compared to azacitidine alone. Commentary on: Adès et al. A randomised phase II study of azacitidine (AZA) alone or with lenalidomide (LEN), valproic acid (VPA) or idarubicin (IDA) in higher-risk MDS: GFM's 'pick a winner' trial, with the impact of somatic mutations. Br J Haematol 2022;198:535-544.