Early Treatment Initiation in Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS) Produces Higher Rate of and Earlier Transfusion Independence (TI)

Introduction:MDS are characterized by dysplastic blood cell production and anemia, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia. Anemia may be managed by red blood cell transfusions, but risks of infection, iron overload, and end-organ damage can limit use. Disease progression is defined, in part, by dependence on transfusions. Active treatment with chemotherapy or biotherapy directed at the underlying dysplastic cells can reduce transfusion requirements, although optimum timing for initiation is not fully understood.