About MDS and MPN
Hematology Care in the Heart of Israel
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) are two groups of chronic blood disorders. These conditions interfere with the bone marrow’s ability to produce healthy blood cells. Over time, without the right treatment, they can develop into acute leukemia.
MDS usually leads to a drop in blood counts, which may cause fatigue, infections, and anemia. MPN, on the other hand, often causes an increase in blood counts and may increase the risk of blood clots. Both conditions require ongoing medical care to improve quality of life and prevent complications.
At Tel Aviv Medical Center, one of Israel’s well-known clinics located in central Tel Aviv, we provide complete diagnosis and treatment for patients with MDS and MPN. Our hematologists are trained both in Israel and internationally, and we focus on offering care that suits each patient’s specific situation.
What Causes MDS and MPN?
The reasons why people develop MDS or MPN are not always clear. In many cases, changes (mutations) in specific genes are part of the cause. These include JAK2, CALR, MPL, TP53, and others. Finding these mutations early can help doctors choose the most effective treatment.
Common Symptoms
If you or someone close to you notices any of these symptoms, it’s important to get checked by a hematology specialist in Israel:
- Feeling weak and tired
- Difficulty breathing
- Getting infections more often
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Unexplained weight loss
- Enlarged spleen
- Unusual blood count results
Diagnosis at Tel Aviv Medical Center
We use the latest tests to diagnose MDS and MPN, including:
- Blood tests (CBC and blood smear)
- Bone marrow biopsy
- Cytogenetic analysis
- Genetic tests to check for specific mutations
An accurate diagnosis helps us build the right treatment plan and improve outcomes.
Treatment Options for MDS and MPN in Israel
Treating MDS
In Israel, treatment for MDS depends on how severe the condition is. For patients with low-risk MDS, we may begin with monitoring and supportive care, such as blood transfusions when needed. If the disease progresses, we may recommend medications such as low-dose hypomethylating agents.
Many patients respond well to Erythroid Stimulating Agents (ESA), which help raise red blood cell counts. In some cases, we add G-CSF to improve the response. Research is ongoing about medications like Eltrombopag (Revolade) to help with low platelet counts.
Lenalidomide (Revlimid) is also used in patients with a specific chromosomal change called 5q deletion.
For high-risk MDS, treatment usually includes chemotherapy with medications like Azacitidine (Vidaza) or Decitabine (Dacogen). In certain cases, we may consider an allogeneic stem cell transplant, which is currently the only treatment that may offer a cure.
Treating MPN
The goal of MPN treatment is to prevent complications and manage symptoms.
For Polycythemia Vera (PV), we help patients maintain hematocrit levels below 45%, often with phlebotomy and low-dose aspirin. Some patients may also need medications like Hydroxyurea to lower blood counts.
For Essential Thrombocytosis (ET), treatment depends on age and medical history. Older patients or those who have experienced blood clots receive Hydroxyurea and aspirin. Younger patients without risk factors may not need treatment right away.
Patients with Primary Myelofibrosis (PMF) may experience symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, or spleen enlargement. In such cases, we offer treatment with Ruxolitinib (Jakavi), a JAK inhibitor. Other treatments may include ESAs, steroids, or medications like Thalidomide and Lenalidomide to manage anemia.
For some patients, a stem cell transplant may be an option. This is the only treatment that may cure PMF but is suitable only for specific cases.
Why Choose Tel Aviv Medical Center?
When looking for expert care for MDS and MPN in Israel, patients choose our clinic for several reasons:
- Convenient location in central Tel Aviv
- Experienced and internationally trained hematology specialists
- A multidisciplinary medical team
- Advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies
- Personalized care plans
- Access to clinical trials and new therapies
Looking Ahead
Living with MDS or MPN can be challenging, but early diagnosis and expert care make a real difference. Many patients we meet initially feel overwhelmed. Our goal is to help you understand the condition and receive the best care possible.
If you or someone you know needs treatment for MDS or MPN in Israel, feel free to contact us. Our team at Tel Aviv Medical Center is here to guide you and offer the care you deserve.
