Mapping the research landscape of myelodysplastic syndromes: a scientometric analysis (2014-2025)

This scientometric study critically evaluates the global evolution of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) research from 2014 to 2025, aiming to integrate fragmented knowledge and identify emerging trends. A scientometric analysis was conducted using data retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection on August 2, 2025. The search was restricted to "article" and "review" in English containing "Myelodysplastic syndrome" or "Myelodysplastic syndromes" in the abstract, covering the period from January 1, 2014 onward. Scientometric tools (VOSviewer, CiteSpace, R-bibliometrix) were employed to analyze annual publication trends, country/institution/author contributions, collaboration networks, journal distribution, reference co-citation clusters, emerging research topics. Analysis of 6,822 publications revealed that global MDS research output peaked in 2021. The USA dominated with 2,838 publications, followed by China (1,169) and Germany (717), while top institutions (e.g., University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center) and prolific authors (e.g., Garcia-Manero G, Kantarjian HM) were predominantly USA-based. Collaboration networks revealed a core-periphery structure with strong transatlantic ties and emerging Asian contributions. Thematic analysis identified research hotspots across multiple dimensions, including 5q deletion, trisomy 8, germline predisposition, TP53 mutation, clonal hematopoiesis, inflammation, venetoclax, luspatercept, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, pediatric population, VEXAS syndrome, IPSS-R, relapse, prognosis, overall survival, and artificial intelligence. MDS research is shifting toward precision medicine. Future advances are expected to rely on multi-ethnic cohort building, mechanism exploration, combined treatment regimen optimization and novel drug development. Strengthening multidisciplinary collaboration is anticipated to facilitate clinical translation and foster more precise, equitable and clinically practical management of MDS globally.