Management of anemia in low-risk myelodysplastic syndromes treated with erythropoiesis-stimulating agents newer and older agents

The myelodysplastic syndromes (MDSs) are clonal hematopoietic stem cell disorders. The International Prognostic Score System (IPSS) groups MDS in lower-risk (IPSS low and intermediate-1) and higher-risk disease (IPSS intermediate-2 and high). AML transformation is the main concern in higher-risk MDS, while anemia and transfusion dependency represent the major issues for low-risk MDS patients. Improving erythropoiesis, and eliminating fatigue and symptoms, is the main therapeutic goal for low-risk MDS patients. Around 50% of MDS patients present with anemia with an Hb level < 100 g/L. Severe anemia increases the negative effects of comorbidities, such as heart and lung failure. Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs), with or without granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, induce erythroid response rates in 40-50% of lower-risk anemic MDS patients. The median response duration of 24 months. Apoptosis of erythroid cells is inhibited by ESAs leading to erythrocyte production. Our paper considers the state of the art of treatment of anemia in low-risk MDS patients and the treatment options in MDS resistant or refractory to ESAs.