Why Choose Us for Myelodysplastic Syndromes Care
At Huntsman Cancer Institute, our hematologic oncology team provides expert care for myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), a group of bone marrow disorders where immature blood cells fail to mature and crowd out healthy cells. Your multidisciplinary care team employs next-generation sequencing and risk-stratification tools to guide treatment decisions tailored to your disease biology and health status.
"My doctor is a godsend to me. He listens, educates, explains and never makes me feel like he is in a hurry. He is present in thought and is always including me in the discussion of my best treatment plans."
Myelodysplastic Syndromes Patient
Treatments We Offer
Treatment depends on your disease stage, location, and preferences. These are common options:
- Supportive care, including transfusions and growth factors
- Hypomethylating agents or other systemic therapies
- Targeted therapies
- Stem cell transplant
- Enrollment in biomarker-driven clinical trials (e.g., the myeloMATCH program)
Our Expertise
As the National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center serving the Mountain West, we’re here to offer you the latest treatments and the highest level of care available, including access to the following:
- Multidisciplinary care teams
- Expert diagnosis and treatment plans
- Advanced approaches not widely available elsewhere
Patient Care Philosophy
We believe no one should face cancer alone. Our dedicated and world-renowned doctors, nurses, and medical staff are at the forefront of patient-centered care. We treat the whole person, not just their cancer.
Each day, our medical, surgical, and radiation oncologists work together across disciplines to create and coordinate treatment plans for every patient. We understand cancer is a complex disease. That is why we use a team approach that includes social workers and support groups, as well as wellness and integrative health services such as acupuncture, massage, creative arts, and more.
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Myelodysplastic Syndromes Research
We are a nationally recognized leader in blood cancer and bone marrow disorder research. Our clinical trials portfolio includes first-in-human studies, CAR T-cell therapy, novel antibody-based treatments, and innovative approaches for myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS).
Through our specialty Hematology Disease Center, we aim to identify new therapeutic targets, advance treatment strategies for MDS and related conditions, and improve survivorship for patients everywhere. Our research focuses on understanding disease biology, refining risk stratification, and developing therapies that transform outcomes for those living with these complex disorders.
Clinical Trials
Make an Appointment with a Myelodysplastic Syndromes Specialist
To make an appointment with a myelodysplastic syndromes specialist, fill out our appointment form or call 801-587-7000. Our team will determine if your insurance covers treatment at Huntsman Cancer Institute or if you need a referral from a primary care doctor.
External providers can refer a patient using the online referral form or by calling 801-587-7000 to speak to a patient registration specialist.
Myelodysplastic Syndromes Basics
Myelodysplastic syndromes are clonal disorders of blood-forming cells where maturation is impaired and healthy cells are replaced by abnormal ones.
These are warning signs of myelodysplastic syndromes:
- Fatigue
- Infections
- Bleeding or low blood counts
Many of these symptoms can be caused by other conditions. If you experience any concerning signs, schedule a screening today.
Doctors may use the following to diagnose myelodysplastic syndromes:
- Cytogenetics
- Molecular profiling
- Bone marrow biopsy: The health care provider removes a small sample of bone marrow to look for abnormal cells under a microscope.
Need help navigating your care? The Cancer Learning Center is here to support you with personalized guidance, resources, and answers to your questions.
Your care team will use tools like IPSS-R and molecular markers to determine risk and guide therapy.
Understand your risk. Schedule a genetic counseling session today.
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