The burden of autoimmunity in myelodysplastic syndromes

Hematol Oncol. 2018 Feb;36(1):15-23. doi: 10.1002/hon.2423. Epub 2017 Apr 27.

Abstract

The clinical history of patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) is characterised by bone marrow insufficiency as well as by the possible evolution into acute leukaemia. However a number of reports highlight the frequent occurrence of autoimmune manifestations involving different sites and organs. The present review will first describe the clinical pictures most often observed in MDS patients. The actual burden of autoimmunity will be then addressed by focusing on the few available registry studies. Finally, the potential collateral impact of specific treatments for MDS on the evolution of autoimmune disorders will be considered.

Keywords: autoimmune manifestations; autoimmunity; myelodysplastic syndromes.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Autoimmunity / immunology*
  • Humans
  • Myelodysplastic Syndromes / complications*
  • Myelodysplastic Syndromes / therapy