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Chemotherapy for Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS)

Authors:
  • Amy Scholten, MPH
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Chemotherapy for Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS)

Chemotherapy is not used to treat or cure MDS. However, high-dose chemotherapy may be used before a stem cell transplant to rid the body of cancer cells. It may also be used for MDS that has become acute myeloid leukemia or to ease symptoms caused by the disease.

Chemotherapy Drugs and Delivery

MDS is treated with cytarabine and 1 other drug. These are:

  • Idarubicin
  • Topotecan
  • Fludarabine

Chemotherapy is most often given through and IV and is done in cycles over time. It may also be given as a shot under the skin. The drugs and how often they are used depend on the type of MDS and the problems. It is common for MDS to come back after chemotherapy. If so, the mix of drugs may be changed.

Chemotherapy Drugs and Delivery

MDS is treated with cytarabine and 1 other drug. These are:

  • Idarubicin
  • Topotecan
  • Fludarabine

Chemotherapy is most often given through and IV and is done in cycles over time. It may also be given as a shot under the skin. The drugs and how often they are used depend on the type of MDS and the problems. It is common for MDS to come back after chemotherapy. If so, the mix of drugs may be changed.

Side Effects and Management

Chemotherapy can cause a range of health problems. The most common are:

  • Low red or white blood cell, or platelet counts
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Hair loss
  • Mouth sores
  • Fever
  • In high doses, problems with how the brain works

There are many ways to manage these problems. Medicines and lifestyle changes are the most common. In some cases, the cycles may be changed to lower the risk of serious problems. It is important to talk to the doctor as soon as side effects appear. Early care tends to help control them better.

References

  • Chemotherapy for myelodysplastic syndromes. American Cancer Society website. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/myelodysplastic-syndrome/treating/chemotherapy.html. Accessed April 19, 2022.
  • Cytarabine. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/drug-monograph/cytarabine. Accessed April 19, 2022.
  • Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/myelodysplastic-syndrome-mds. Accessed April 19, 2022.
  • Treatment option overview. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/types/myeloproliferative/patient/myelodysplastic-treatment-pdq#section/_49. Accessed April 19, 2022.

Contributors

  • Mohei Abouzied, MD, FACP
Last Updated:
2021-12-19

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This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.