What it is
Some people with low-risk MDS only need monitoring with regular blood tests.
Treatment may include blood transfusions, medicines to boost blood cell production, chemotherapy and, for some, a stem cell transplant.
Common signs
- Tiredness and breathlessness from anaemia
- Frequent infections
- Bruising or bleeding easily
- Often found on a routine blood test
How it is usually diagnosed
- Full blood count and blood film
- Bone marrow biopsy
- Genetic tests on the marrow
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Blood counts over time
- Bone marrow biopsy reports
- Transfusion records
- Haematology letters
Questions to ask your doctor
- Is my MDS low or high risk?
- How often will I need blood tests?
- What treatment do you recommend?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- A temperature of 38°C or above, bleeding that will not stop, or feeling suddenly very unwell: get urgent medical help
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.