What is myelodysplastic syndrome?

Myelodysplastic syndrome refers to a group of disorders caused by poorly formed or dysfunctional blood cells, specifically affecting the bone marrow's ability to produce sufficient and effective blood cells. In these disorders, the bone marrow produces an inadequate number of healthy red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, which can lead to various complications, such as anemia and increased risk of infections and bleeding.

This condition is characterized by a decline in hematopoiesis, which means the bone marrow does not function properly, resulting in insufficient blood cell production, which aligns precisely with the definition provided in the chosen answer. Individuals with myelodysplastic syndromes may have symptoms related to low blood cell counts, making it crucial to understand its implications for health management.