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Which types of cells are affected by the abnormal development in MDS?
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Red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
Which routine test is often used to diagnose MDS?
Complete Blood Count (CBC).
Are Myelodysplastic Syndromes commonly inherited?
No, they are rarely inherited and are related to genetic changes in DNA.
What is the risk of developing acute myeloid leukemia (AML) from MDS?
Approximately 30%.
What are some prevention strategies to lower the risk of developing MDS?
Not smoking, avoiding cancer-causing chemicals, avoiding heavy metals, avoiding radiation and certain chemotherapy drugs.
What are Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS)?
A group of bone marrow failure disorders where the bone marrow doesn't produce enough healthy blood cells, and can turn into leukemia.
What happens to stem cells in MDS?
Stem cells may remain as immature cells (blasts) or develop abnormally, leading to cytopenia.
How does symptom level affect the prognosis of MDS?
More severe symptoms typically indicate a worse prognosis.
How does the prognosis vary between low and high risk MDS scores?
High or Very High risk has a prognosis of 1-2 years without treatment, while Lower risk scores have a better prognosis.
List the three types of cytopenia seen in MDS.
Anemia (too few red blood cells), Neutropenia (too few white blood cells), Thrombocytopenia (too few platelets).
Why is it important for patients to understand their specific MDS type and risk group?
Better understanding leads to better treatment decisions.
Name four risk factors for developing MDS.
Age over 60, Previous chemotherapy or radiation, Exposure to certain chemicals, Smoking.
What is the function of bone marrow?
Produces stem cells that mature into red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
What is the significance of the MDS severity scoring system?
It classifies the severity into five categories: Very Low, Low, Intermediate, High, Very High.
What are some common symptoms of MDS?
Fatigue, Shortness of breath, Heart palpitations, Fever or infections, Bleeding or bruising easily.
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