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Living with MDS (Myelodyplastic Syndromes)
Blood Cancers & Disorders | Last Active: 2 days ago | Replies (233)Comment receiving replies
HALFWAY TREATMENT?
I saw the hematologist a few days ago. He diagnosed me with "MDS with excess blasts." He gave me three treatment options: (1) weekly blood draws and weekly retacrit, (2) vidaza, (3) stem cell transplant.
I am wondering if there is a "halfway treatment" stronger than (1) but less intimidating than (2)?
They tell me vidaza is chemotherapy. I've seen many family members and friends devastated by chemotherapy. I am intimidated by it.
Replies to "HALFWAY TREATMENT? I saw the hematologist a few days ago. He diagnosed me with "MDS with..."
I am on my 37th Cycle with Vidaza (that's over 3 years) and have not had any side effects. You might get a little tired at times, but not too much. It took three months for the Vidaza to kick in. My labs have been in the normal range ever since. I am 76. Wish you all the best. Good Health to you.
Mike
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@statmatics I hope your Dr told you that the excess blasts puts you at a higher risk of developing AML? Did he tell you what risk level you are at? What level are your blasts at? I know your head is probably spinning, but with the excess blasts, you should probably be aggressive. You can download the IPSS-M risk calculator from mds-foundation.org to determine your risk level as well as documentation about the disease.