Flemington myelodysplastic syndrome refers to several diseases that affect the bone marrow, thus leading to the production of abnormal cells. Treatment differs depending on the stage, and there is a risk of acute leukemia. Even if the syndrome is complex to manage, modern technology aims at diagnosing the condition and treatment. Experts at Hunterdon Hematology Oncology, LLC, apply different interventions in managing Flemington myelodysplastic syndrome.
Causes
A shortage of platelets, red blood cells and white blood cells characterize myelodysplastic syndrome in the blood. As the disease progresses, more abnormal cells are formed and displace the normal blood formation.
The condition is neither hereditary nor contagious; therefore, it cannot be transmitted between persons. The major causes of this condition are genetic changes or mutation of cells in the bone marrow.
It can also occur due to environmental influences such as chemical exposure and radiation. Some patients with Myelodysplastic diseases have had a history of cancer treatment with radiation or chemotherapy.
However, in most cases, the causes are not known. Although anyone can suffer from this disease, it is most prevalent for people over 60 years.
Symptoms
Myelodysplastic symptoms develop slowly, and therefore the discovery can be incidental during a routine medical checkup. One of the main symptoms is anemia due to decreased blood cells. It can lead to fatigue, shortness of breath, exhaustion, weakness, and loss of concentration.
You may also experience ringing sounds in the ears, headaches, rapid pulse, and dizziness. Due to a decreased production of white blood cells, your body becomes susceptible to opportunistic infections. Also, low platelets can cause bleeding and coagulation disorder.
Diagnosis
Your oncologist conducts a thorough examination to diagnose Myelodysplastic condition. The tests include bone marrow and blood exams to ascertain the blood count and other values necessary for diagnosis.
A bone marrow test reveals a blood disorder, and it is an outpatient procedure. The doctor introduces a needle into the bone marrow to take a sample under local anesthesia. You may feel uncomfortable for a few minutes. Other laboratory tests are ordered to determine genetic changes and to confirm a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
The myelodysplastic condition cannot be cured with medication or drugs. The main objective of the treatment is to improve your quality of life, slow the progression and relieve the symptoms. The treatment techniques depend on various factors such as age and your overall health.
Your oncologist takes into consideration all these factors when planning a treatment or therapy program. For low-risk patients, the doctor schedules regular tests with no therapy. Treatment can begin when symptoms show up.
Supportive therapy
The primary treatment for this condition is supportive therapy, which treats the symptoms or the complications. These include red blood cell transfusion to treat anemia, platelets to prevent bleeding, antibiotics to prevent infections, and vaccinations against pneumonia.
Other treatment options include chemotherapy, which is divided into various cycles. A stem cell transplant may be ordered to replace the bone marrow for high-risk cases.
Patients can benefit from treatment and supportive therapy for myelodysplastic syndrome. For more information, contact the experts at Hunterdon Hematology Oncology, LLC.
