Hypoplastic MDS

Hypoplastic MDS

Hypoplastic MDS accounts for about 10% of all MDS cases. It is characterized by a bone marrow that is hypocellular for age.
Some dysplastic features may be noted, however may not be that florid and the diagnosis may be difficult to differentiate from aplastic anaemia.

Blood film of a patient with hypoplastic MDS. Note the profound cytopenia. There is a dimorphic RBC picture suggestive of recent transfusion. Dysplastic features are scant.

Blood Film Features:

• Profound cytopenias
• Cytopenias with dysplasia (see MDS overview page for specific features)

Bone marrow aspirate of a patient with hypoplastic MDS. Very hypocellular marrow with hypocellular cell trials.

Bone Marrow Features:

• Hypocellular bone marrow for age
• Dysplastic features (see MDS overview page for specific features): most common dysplastic micromegakaryo­cytes

Other Resources

• ASH image bank:  Hypocellular MDS
• Youtube: Hypocellular MDS vs Aplastic anemia – Diagnostic and therapy