Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS)
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of rare blood cancers that affect the bone marrow’s ability to produce healthy blood cells, often causing fatigue, anemia, and frequent infections. Because MDS can look different from person to person, finding information that actually reflects your situation can feel overwhelming.
Below you’ll find a patient story from someone who has lived it, an in-depth conversation with a leading MDS hematologist, and resources from the organizations best equipped to support you.
What are Myelodysplastic Syndromes?
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of rare blood cancers related to leukemia that affect the bone marrow’s ability to produce healthy blood cells, leading to symptoms like fatigue, frequent infections, and anemia. While not a leukemia, some forms of MDS can progress to acute myeloid leukemia over time.
Common Signs and Symptoms of MDS
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) often develop slowly, and symptoms can be subtle at first. Many are tied to low blood counts (anemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia).
- Low red blood cells (anemia):
- Fatigue or unusual tiredness
- Shortness of breath (especially with activity)
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Pale skin
- Low white blood cells (neutropenia):
- Frequent infections
- Infections that are harder to recover from
- Low platelets (thrombocytopenia):
- Easy bruising
- Bleeding more easily (nosebleeds, bleeding gums)
- Tiny red spots under the skin (petechiae)
- Other symptoms include
- Weakness or reduced stamina
- Unexplained weight loss (less common)
- Fever without a clear cause
Some people with MDS have no noticeable symptoms at diagnosis and find out through routine blood work.
In the spring of 2018, I began to get very short of breath at the slightest exertion. I was 70 years old at the time and I thought that maybe it was my age, but it was worse than that. Fatigue set in, so we did more tests.
—Jim C. on learning he had MDS
Featured MDS Program
Patient Stories
Myelodysplatic Syndromes (MDS) Resources
Blood Cancer United is the world’s leading nonprofit dedicated to curing blood cancer and improving the lives of patients and their families.
Get a comprehensive overview of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and the various resources available to you.
Registered nurses with blood cancer expertise personally guide patients and caregivers through every step of the clinical trial process, at no cost.
Connect one-on-one with highly trained oncology professionals for guidance on your diagnosis, treatment options, and available resources.
The MDS Foundation is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of those impacted by myelodysplastic syndromes and its related diseases.
Through patient support, education, research, and advocacy, they empower patients and caregivers with the knowledge and resources needed to navigate MDS with confidence.
Connect with other MDS patients and caregivers to share experiences, ask questions, and find community with people who truly understand your journey.
Get involved and raise awareness for MDS research and patient support. Every step and mile helps advance the mission for this rare blood cancer.
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