Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) is the general name for a group of diseases of hematopoietic stem cells, resulting in abnormal blood cells produced in the body. Lack of healthy blood cells that perform essential functions can lead to the malfunctioning of the entire body. The myelodysplastic syndrome can transform into acute myeloid leukemia over time, so it is essential to identify the disease in the early stages and get the proper treatment. Most often, the condition is diagnosed in men over 60 years of age. However, it can also occur to people of all ages. Your Flemington Myelodysplastic syndrome specialist diagnoses and recommends treatment for individuals. Here is what you need to know about the condition
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Symptoms
During the initial stage of the development of the disease, the symptoms may not be specific since there are no apparent signs. During this period, your doctor may diagnose the disease accidentally when performing a blood test.
Later you may experience gastrointestinal and nosebleeds, hemorrhages in the skin, joints or hemorrhagic syndrome, and minor trauma. Other symptoms include weakness, fatigue, shortness of breath, palpitations, and dizziness.
In addition, you may suffer from frequent infectious diseases that can occur due to a decrease in the number of white blood cells in the body. As you already know, these are responsible for fighting against diseases.
You may also experience excessive weight loss, lack of appetite, and bone pain. Other times, there may be red spots under the skin surface which can cause bleeding.
Causes
In most cases, Myelodysplastic syndrome develops for no reason, and there are no specific factors to explain its occurrence. However, certain medical conditions are known to increase the risk of this disease, including Down syndrome, Fanconi anemia, and neurofibromatosis.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of the disease begins with a consultation with a hematologist. The team at Hunterdon Hematology Oncology LLC diagnoses the condition by first studying your medical history. Other examinations may be necessary to get an accurate diagnosis.
The specialists conduct high-precision tests to obtain complete information about a specific hematological disease.
These examinations include blood and urine tests. In addition, your doctor may conduct various types of biopsy, including bone marrow biopsy followed by histological examination.
Bone marrow biopsy is performed under anesthetic supervision, ensuring you do not feel pain during this procedure. After a diagnosis, your doctor will determine the correct treatment depending on the results.
Treatment
The specific treatment option depends on several factors, such as the disease’s characteristics, age, and state of health. The team approves your treatment plan of which eliminates the likelihood of errors.
The specialists use modern treatment methods using the latest technology and immunotherapy drugs. The goal of the treatment program is to stop the progression of the disease, restore the normal process of hematopoiesis, improve your well-being and provide you with a good quality of life.
Since the disease can transform into leukemia, you should not ignore these symptoms. Contact the specialists at Hunterdon Hematology Oncology, LLC for a comprehensive examination, timely and accurate diagnosis.