[Cytogenetics of myelodysplastic syndromes]

The authors review the main cytogenetic abnormalities encountered in MDS particularly del 5q, -7, +8, and complex abnormalities. Their presence may be useful to the diagnosis of MDS in difficult cases. Their prognostic value is important, and cytogenetics have recently been included in prognostic scores in MDS. Knowledge of recurrent chromosomal rearrangements is finally a first step in the discovery of genes implicated in the pathogenesis of MDS.