Myelodysplastic Syndromes

Program Overview. At The Lacks Cancer Center at Saint Mary’s Health Care, our cancer treatment programs are increasing hope every day, thanks to a unique multidisciplinary model of care, which incorporates a staff of progressive physicians and the most innovative technologies available. In addition to this model, we continually review and apply the latest anti-cancer drugs, the newest staging and imaging techniques, such as PET scan technology, and the most effective surgical procedures to ensure the best outcomes in the treatment of myelodysplastic syndromes.

Lymphatic System Overview. The lymphatic system is the driving force behind the body’s immune system, filtering out unhealthy microorganisms and constantly fighting infection. The bone marrow, spleen, thymus gland and lymph nodes are among key tissues that play an active part in this system. Essentially, the bone marrow—tissue found within bones—produces white blood cells that travel to and reside in small pockets of tissue found throughout the body (lymph nodes). These white blood cells are sent out by the lymph nodes to stalk unwanted bacteria and viruses in the blood. They then surround the unwanted organisms and release fluids that destroy them. They travel back to the lymph nodes, which filter out the newly destroyed “intruders.”

Myelodysplastic Syndromes. Myelodysplastic syndromes are a category of several diseases of the blood in which the stem cells in the bone marrow do not mature into healthy red blood cells, white blood cells or platelets. The blasts (immature blood cells) either die in the bone marrow or soon after they enter the blood. This leaves less room for healthy white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets to develop in the bone marrow. When there are fewer blood cells, infection, anemia or easy bleeding can occur.

Signs and Symptoms. This disease typically does not present with symptoms, because of this, it is typically found during routine blood tests. The symptoms that do occur may also be signs of several other medical conditions. Signs and symptoms Myelodysplastic Syndromes can include:
 

• Shortness of breath
• Weakness or fatigue
• Having skin that is paler than usual
• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Petechiae (flat, pinpoint spots under the skin caused by bleeding)
• Fever or frequent infections

Risk Factors:
 

• Being a white male older than 60
• Past treatment with chemotherapy or radiation therapy
• Exposure to certain chemicals, including tobacco smoke, pesticides, and solvents such as benzene
• Exposure to heavy metals, such as mercury or lead

To schedule a consult with our team of oncologists, simply ask your primary care physician for a referral or make a self-referral by calling 1-877-LACKS-MI or 616-685-LACK(S).