Back to library
Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS)
A group of bone-marrow cancers in which immature blood cells do not become enough healthy mature cells.
Understanding MDS
In MDS, abnormal stem cells in the bone marrow produce too few healthy red cells, white cells or platelets. The group includes several subtypes with different risks. Some remain stable for years, while others progress more quickly or develop into acute myeloid leukaemia. Blood counts, marrow findings and genetic changes guide risk assessment.
Possible signs and symptoms
- Persistent tiredness or weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Skin that is paler than usual
- Frequent or unusual infections
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Pinpoint red or purple spots under the skin
Treatment and care
Treatment depends on subtype, blood counts, genetic findings, symptoms, progression risk, age and overall health. Some people initially need monitoring only.
Supportive care
Blood or platelet transfusions, medicines that stimulate blood-cell production, antibiotics and iron-overload management may reduce complications from low blood counts.
Disease-modifying treatment
Medicines such as azacitidine, decitabine, lenalidomide, immunosuppressive treatment or chemotherapy may be used. Donor stem-cell transplant is a potentially curative option for selected people.
Sources and medical information
Sources checked: 28 July 2026
Low blood counts have many possible causes and MDS requires blood and bone-marrow testing. Fever during severe neutropenia, uncontrolled bleeding, chest pain, fainting or severe breathlessness needs urgent medical care.
Official sources
Key Facts
Bone marrowAbnormal immature cells fail to make enough healthy blood cells
Several subtypesRisk ranges from slow disease to progression toward acute myeloid leukaemia