Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS)
MDS, sometimes known as preleukemia, is a hematologic condition caused by the ineffective production of blood cells, and is thought to arise from mutations in the bone marrow stem cells. Workers in industries with heavy exposure to hydrocarbons such as the petroleum industry have a higher risk of contracting the disease than the general population.
Symptoms
Characteristics indicative of MDS include anemia, chronic tiredness, shortness of breath, susceptability to infection, and increased susceptibility to bleeding. Xylene and benzene exposure are known to be associated with the development of MDS, and Vietnam war veterans with exposure to Agent Orange are also known to be high risk individuals. Tests to confirm suspicion of MDS include blood tests and testing of bone marrow samples taken through aspiration. Left unchecked, MDS can progress to a more destructive form of cancer known as Acute Myelogenous Leukemia.
Treatment Options
Therapy goals include controlling symptoms, improving survival rates and overall quality of life, and decreasing the progression to acute myelogenous leukemia. The mainstay of MDS therapy is use of agents to support proper blood growth development. More aggressive therapy includes chemotherapy, stem cell transplant, and bone marrow transplant. Stem cell transplants and bone marrow transplants have shown high rates of curative success, especially among younger patients. The cost of treatment, as with most cancers, is high. The required cocktail of drugs alone can cost more than $10,000 per month.
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If you have questions about asbestos or benzene exposure and are concerned about possible occupational diseases and cancers, Shelton Law Group is here to help. Call us today for a FREE evaluation to find out if you have a case or fill out our case assessment form to consult with a member of our devoted staff.