Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS) are a group of blood cancers characterized by ineffective production of blood cells. These syndromes are categorized into various subgroups, primarily based on morphological features observed in the bone marrow and blood.
Main Morphologically Defined MDS Subgroups
The classification of MDS into distinct subgroups helps in understanding the specific characteristics of the disease, guiding prognosis, and informing treatment strategies. The principal morphologically defined subgroups include:
Subgroup Name | Abbreviation | Key Characteristic |
---|---|---|
MDS with low blasts | MDS-LB | Characterized by a low percentage of immature blood cells (blasts) in the bone marrow and peripheral blood. |
MDS with low blasts and ring sideroblasts | MDS-LB-RS | Similar to MDS-LB but specifically includes the presence of ring sideroblasts, which are red blood cell precursors with abnormal iron accumulation around the nucleus. |
MDS, hypoplastic | MDS-h | Distinguished by a hypoplastic (abnormally low number of cells) bone marrow, meaning fewer blood-forming cells than normal. |
MDS with increased blasts | Defined by a higher percentage of blasts in the bone marrow or blood, often indicating a more aggressive form of the disease. |
Understanding these subgroups is crucial for accurate diagnosis and tailored patient management. For more detailed information on MDS subtypes and their diagnostic criteria, you can refer to resources from organizations like the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.