Diagnosis recommendation of myelodysplastic syndromes in adults according to European LeukemiaNet

Abstract

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) according to WHO definition are a group of myeloid neoplasms characterized by peripheral blood cytopenias and increased risk of leukemic transformation. An accurate diagnostic procedure and risk assessment are necessary for choosing an optimal treatment option. The aim of this article is performance of MDS diagnostic standards according to European LeukemiaNet. MDS diagnosis should be based on WHO 2008 criteria with International Prognostic Score System (IPSS) risk assessment. Additionally, in prospective trials WHO based PSS (WPSS) and Revised–IPSS (R-IPSS) should be performed. Immunophentyping and gene mutation assessment are not mandatory. Moreover, individual patient treatment risk according to age, performance status and comorbidities should be evaluated. The treatment decision is made based on MDS prognostic factors and patient status.