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Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)

Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), also called myelodysplasia, is a type of blood cancer. It's rare and mostly affects people over 70 years old.

About this information

This NHS content is written for people in England. Services, entitlements and contact routes may differ in other countries.

Symptoms of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)

Symptoms

Causes of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)

Causes

Tests and next steps for myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)

Diagnosis

Treatment for myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)

Medical treatments

Symptoms of myelodysplastic syndrome can include tiredness, bleeding more than usual and getting ill a lot. Some people have no symptoms at first.

Anyone can get myelodysplastic syndrome. It's more common in people over 70, men and people with certain genetic conditions.

Myelodysplastic syndrome is diagnosed by testing a sample of your bone marrow.

Treatment for myelodysplastic syndrome depends on your situation. It may include chemotherapy or a stem cell transplant.

Main symptoms of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)

Symptoms of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) are not always obvious and can be similar to other conditions.

You may not have any symptoms in the early stages. Sometimes it's found when you have a blood test for another reason.

If you do have symptoms, they can include:

  • feeling tired or weak
  • feeling breathless when you do light exercise
  • bleeding more than usual (such as having frequent nosebleeds, bleeding gums or heavier periods) or bruising more than usual
  • getting ill a lot or taking longer than usual to recover from illnesses
  • looking paler than usual – this may be less noticeable on brown or black skin
  • a rash that looks like small bruises or bleeding under the skin and does not fade when you roll a glass over it, similar to meningitis

Symptoms are usually mild at first and slowly get worse.

See a GP if:

  • you think you could have myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)

Who is more likely to get myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)

Anyone can get myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS).

It's not known what causes MDS in most people. Rarely, it can be caused by chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatment for another type of cancer.

You might also be more likely to get it if:

  • you're over 70
  • you're a man
  • others in your family have had it, or have had acute myeloid leukaemia (AML)
  • you've worked with the chemical benzene (used in the rubber industry, and found in petrol and cigarette smoke)
  • you have certain genetic conditions such as Down's syndrome

Main tests for myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)

If a GP refers you to a specialist (haematologist), you may need some tests to check for myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS).

Tests may include taking a small sample from your bone marrow (the tissue inside your bones) using a needle, to be checked for cancer. This is called a bone marrow biopsy.

If you have a bone marrow biopsy, you'll usually have a local anaesthetic to stop you feeling any pain. You may also be given medicine to help you relax (sedation).

Main treatments for myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)

Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) often develops very slowly. You may not need treatment straight away.

Treatment will depend on:

  • your symptoms
  • the type of MDS you have
  • how quickly your symptoms are expected to get worse, and the risk of MDS developing into acute myeloid leukaemia (the risk group)
  • your age
  • your general health

If you have low risk MDS and few symptoms you'll usually just have regular check-ups, including blood tests. You may need treatment in the future if your condition gets worse.

If you have higher risk MDS, treatment may include chemotherapy or a stem cell transplant. You may also have medicines called immunosuppressants, targeted medicines or immunotherapy.

You'll also have treatments to prevent and manage symptoms (called supportive treatments).

The specialist care team looking after you will:

  • explain the treatments, benefits and side effects
  • work with you to create a treatment plan
  • help manage any side effects

You'll have regular check-ups and tests during and after any treatments.

If you have any symptoms or side effects that you're worried about, talk to your specialists. You do not need to wait for your next check-up.

Where to find help and support for myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)

You and your loved ones will be supported through your treatment for myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) by a group of specialists.

The clinical nurse specialist, or another member of your specialist team, will be able to give you information on local support services that you may find helpful.

There are also national cancer charities that offer support and information about MDS.

MDS UK Patient Support Group

Information and support for anyone affected by MDS, including online support meetings.

Blood Cancer UK

Information and support for anyone affected by blood cancer.

Macmillan Cancer Support

Information and support for anyone affected by cancer.

Cancer Research UK

Information and support for anyone affected by cancer.

Marie Curie

Care and support for anyone affected by a terminal illness.

Content supplied by the NHS website

Content supplied by the NHS website, refreshed 19 August 2026. View the original NHS article ↗

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