How To Treat Myelodysplastic Syndromes

Myelodysplastic syndromes are a group of bone marrow disorders. Bone marrow produces blood cells that develop into red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. In myelodysplastic syndromes, the immature cells made by bone marrow do not mature into the appropriate cells and can either accumulate in the bone marrow or die shortly after they leave the bone marrow. These conditions lead to an inadequate number of mature blood cells. Not having the appropriate number of cells in circulation can lead to anemia, infections, easy bruising, spontaneous bleeding, or even leukemia.

Additionally, because of the myelodysplastic syndrome they have, the cells produced might not work properly. This inadequacy causes patients to suffer from the effects of the disorder and is not necessarily terminal. Some individuals are born with a predisposition for myelodysplastic syndromes, and since they usually affect older individuals, it might take a long time for the effects to manifest. There are several ways to treat myelodysplastic syndromes. Learn about them now.

Blood Transfusions

Blood transfusions can help with myelodysplastic syndromes because it can put the much needed mature blood cells into the circulation of someone who is lacking them. Blood transfusions are used in many different ways by medical professionals. The majority of individuals think if them when someone is having an operation and is losing their blood, so they need more. But, in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes, it can help replace the white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets these individuals lack.

Blood transfusions involve having donor blood given to the patient through a small tube placed in the vein of the recipient. This lets the donor blood mix with the recipient's blood and replenishes blood cells. Furthermore, different kinds of cells can be donated. A recipient might only need red blood cells, and therefore, the blood transfusion may only contain those cells. An individual receiving blood transfusions has to be careful and ensure their body does not suffer from iron overload. If they keep getting transfusions, this is more likely to happen.

Learn more about how myelodysplastic syndromes are treated now.