Myelodysplastic Syndrome Misdiagnosis

Myelodysplastic syndrome is a collective term used for a group of cancers affecting bone marrow and blood. Due to the nature of these diseases, proper diagnosis can present a considerable challenge.

Diagnostic Procedures

• Proper diagnosis of MDS requires a series of testing procedures. The National Cancer Institute lists commonly used procedures that include complete blood count testing, physical examination, examination of patient history, bone marrow sampling (aspiration and biopsy), blood smear analysis and examination of blood and bone marrow chromosomes (cytogenic analysis).

Diagnostic Difficulties

• Diagnosing the presence of MDS can be difficult, according to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Confirming borderline cases may require repeated review by blood disease specialists.

MDS Misdiagnosis

• Conditions that may be confused with MDS include other forms of cancer, conditions that cause rapid degeneration of red blood cells and blood deficiencies of folate, iron or vitamin B12, according to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Misdiagnosing MDS Sub-Types

• MDS can produce blood and bone marrow changes that range from mild (low-risk) to life-threatening (high-risk), according to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Misdiagnosing one form of the syndrome for another can drastically impact treatment and outcomes.

Considerations

• Individuals with MDS may present no obvious external symptoms, according to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.