MYELODYSPLASTIC SYNDROMES IN CHILDREN

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) in children constitute a heterogeneous disorder, including 'primary' MDS and MDS associated with constitutio nal abnormalities. The Franco American-British (FAB) cytological class ification for adults can be applied for childhood in 50 to 100% of the cases. The transformation into acute myeloblastic leukemia often occu rs, but stabilisation or spontaneous regression of the disease may als o be observed. The therapeutic decision is difficult because there is no predictive factor of the course of the disease. Allogenic bone marr ow transplantation is the best curative option when treatment is neces sary.