Understanding lower-risk MDS
and why anemia can
be a challenge
These frequently asked questions can help you learn about lower-risk MDS, anemia, and the burden of frequent transfusions.
Understanding lower-risk MDS and why anemia can
These frequently asked questions can help you learn about lower-risk MDS, anemia, and the burden of frequent transfusions.
What are myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS)?
MDS are a group of blood cancers that start in the bone marrow, where blood cells are made.
In MDS, the bone marrow does not make healthy blood cells the way it should. Many of the cells it produces are abnormal or don’t fully develop, so there may not be enough healthy blood cells in the body.
What is low- to intermediate-1 risk MDS?
Healthcare providers group MDS into risk levels to understand how serious these diseases may be and how quickly they might progress. The risk levels can also be helpful when trying to determine the best treatment options.
When MDS is labeled as low-risk or intermediate-1 risk, it generally means:
- The disease is growing more slowly than in higher-risk MDS
- It can often be treated less intensely than higher-risk MDS
- Many people live with the condition for years
Low- and intermediate-risk MDS may also be called lower-risk MDS (LR-MDS).
What is anemia?
Anemia happens when your body isn’t making enough red blood cells. These cells carry oxygen throughout the body. Up to 90% of patients with MDS develop anemia.
Symptoms of anemia
Why do some people who have LR-MDS with anemia need blood transfusions?
One of the most common issues in LR-MDS is anemia.
Due to symptoms of anemia, healthcare providers may recommend a red blood cell transfusion. During a transfusion, healthy red blood cells from a donor are given through an IV to help raise the number of red blood cells in the body.
Some people with LR-MDS may only need transfusions occasionally, while others may need them regularly, depending on symptoms and on how low their red blood cell levels are.
What are the risks of frequent transfusions?
Blood transfusions can be helpful, but needing many transfusions over time can cause other health problems. One of the most common concerns is iron overload.
Red blood cells contain iron. When someone receives many transfusions, extra iron can build up in the body. Over time, too much iron may increase your risk of infection and damage organs such as the:
- heart
- liver
- endocrine glands (hormone-producing organs)
Healthcare providers may monitor iron levels and sometimes prescribe medicines to help remove excess iron from the body.