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Myelodysplastic Syndrome
Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS, also known as Preleukemia) is a diverse collection of hematologic conditions united by poor production of blood cells. Often referred to as Pre-leukemia, if not treated Myelodysplastic Syndrome can result in "Secondary Leukemia."
signs of myelodysplastic syndrome:
- neutropenia - The presence of an abnormally small number of neutrophil cells in the blood.
- anaemia - A reduction in the number of circulating red blood cells per volume of blood. Anemia requiring chronic blood transfusion is frequently present.
- thrombocytopenia - An abnormal disease in the number of blood platelets.
- abnormal granules in cells - A minute mass in a cell that has an outline but no apparent structure, also known as granulatio.
- abnormal nuclear shape and size - Deformity of the structure within a cell that contains the chromosomes. As the nucleus is responsible for the cell's metabolism, growth, and reproduction. Deformities of the nucleus can negatively affect these functions.
- chromosomal abnormalities, including chromosomal translocations.
symptoms of myelodysplastic syndrome:
The following list of myelodysplastic symptoms does not in itself confirm the diagnosis of the syndrome. The symptoms can be a result of many diseases and other related syndromes. For diagnosis, the clinical exams at the bottom of the article would be required.
- Anaemia - A reduction in the number of circulating red blood cells per volume of blood produces:
- chronic tiredness
- shortness of breath
- chilled sensation
- Occasional chest pain in some patients.
- Neutropenia (low white cell count)
- resulting in increased susceptibility to infection
- Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count)
- resulting in increased susceptibility to bleeding
Clinical Examinations for diagnosis of myelodysplastic syndrome
In a clinical setting, the following exams are used to confirm the diagnosis of MDS:
- Full blood count and examination of blood film (CBC)
- Bone marrow aspirate and biopsy
- Chromosome studies
Posted by Staff at July 7, 2005 4:57 AM
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