Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) Signs and Symptoms

Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is a group of rare blood cancers that occur when blood stem cells in the bone marrow do not mature into fully functional blood cells. The poorly formed or dysfunctional blood cells then accumulate in the bone marrow or blood, taking up critical space and leaving less room for healthy blood cells and platelets to grow.

MDS is usually diagnosed after age 60. The causes are unknown.

Early warning signs of myelodysplastic syndrome

Low blood cell counts (cytopenias) are a hallmark feature of MDS. Routine blood work may reveal:

• Anemia – Reduced red blood cell count
• Neutropenia – Reduced white blood cell
• Thrombocytopenia – Reduced platelet count

Many early warning signs of myelodysplastic syndrome are related to cytopenias.

Common symptoms of myelodysplastic syndrome

MDS symptoms can vary based on the type of cytopenia and the cell count.

What does myelodysplastic syndrome feel like?

MDS-related anemia may cause:

• Persistent weakness and fatigue
• Loss of stamina
• Bone pain
• Difficulty breathing during activity and rest
• Heart palpitations
• Chest pain

MDS-related neutropenia may cause fever and other symptoms resulting from frequent infections in the:

• Lungs – Coughing and shortness of breath
• Sinuses – Nasal congestion
• Urinary tract – Frequent and painful urination
• Skin – Pain, swelling, redness and warmth in the infected area

What does myelodysplastic syndrome look like?

MDS-related anemia may cause:

• Unusually pale skin

MDS-related thrombocytopenia may cause:

• Spontaneous bleeding
• Easy bruising
• Nosebleeds
• Bleeding gums

Benefit from world-class care at Moffitt Cancer Center

Moffitt’s comprehensive Malignant Hematology Program features one of the largest MDS programs in the nation. Our multispecialty team offers the latest diagnostic and treatment options for myelodysplastic syndrome. Through our robust portfolio of clinical trials, our patients can benefit from groundbreaking treatments that are not yet available in other settings.

If you would like to learn more about myelodysplastic syndrome signs and symptoms, you can request an appointment with a specialist in Moffitt’s Malignant Hematology Program by calling 1-888-663-3488 or submitting a new patient registration form online. We do not require referrals.