Myelodysplastic Syndrome is a progressive connective tissue disease, which occurs as a result of the abnormal formation of the bone marrow and myeloid cells (myeloid progenitor cells). The disease results in an increase in the risk of developing bone marrow-related complications, such as Leukemia. Myelodysplastic Syndrome was first identified within the context of the AIDS epidemic and has been associated with increased risk for many types of cancers, including multiple myeloma, multiple sclerosis (MS), leukemia, and lymphomas. The exact cause of this condition is not known and it is believed that genetic factors may play an important role. The disease can be identified by the lack of common signs or symptoms, such as cachexia, joint pain, poor diet, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, osteoarthritis, depression, anxiety, and low level of salt intake, fluid retention, and skin rash.
