Korean J Med.  2009 Feb;76(2):137-142.

The NCCN clinical practice guidelines and best supportive care for the myelodysplastic syndromes

• Choi CW

Abstract

The myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a heterogeneous group of clonal hematopoietic stem-cell disorders characterized by peripheral cytopenias and hypercellular, dysplastic bone marrow. Appropriate treatment of cytopenia, as well as of other related complications, affect the overall survival of patients. The best supportive care including red blood cell or platelet transfusions and antibiotics have been the most frequent treatment given for patients with MDS. Now new drugs have recently been approved for treating specific subtypes of MDS. Because the choice of therapy and the decision to begin treatment must be tailored to each patient, specific practice guidelines based on extensive evaluation of the data are warranted for both patients and treating physicians. Here, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) clinical practice guidelines for the MDS and currently available options for the best supportive care have been reviewed.

Keyword

Myelodysplastic syndromes; Practice guideline

MeSH Terms

Anti-Bacterial Agents
Bone Marrow
Erythrocytes
Humans
Myelodysplastic Syndromes
Platelet Transfusion
Anti-Bacterial Agents