Cytogenetic features in myelodysplastic syndromes

Higher prevalence of poor prognostic markers at a younger age in adult patients with myelodysplastic syndrome - evaluation of a large cohort in India

BACKGROUND

The karyotype is a major determinant of prognosis in myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Details of the cytogenetic profile of MDS in South Asia are limited because cytogenetic services are not widely available.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of the cytogenetic and clinicopathologic profile of adult primary MDS seen consecutively at a tertiary-care centre in South India between 2003 and 2017. Patients were re-categorised according to the 2022 World Health Organisation (WHO) and the International Consensus classifications (ICC).

RESULTS

There were 936 patients aged 18-86 years (median age 53, 65% males), with MDS with del 5q, low blasts and increased blasts in 7.5%, 58.4% and 34.1% respectively. Clonal abnormalities were seen in 55% of patients, with solitary abnormalities in 29.8% and complex karyotypes (CK, ≥ 3 abnormalities) in 15%. The most frequent abnormalities were monosomy 7/deletion 7q (16.1%), deletion 5q (14.5%), trisomy 8 (11.5%), and deletion 20q (5.1%). Cytogenetic prognosis groups were distributed as follows: very good, 2%; good, 55.6%; intermediate, 16.2%; poor, 15%; very poor, 11.2%. Clinical (IPSS-R) risk stratification (842 patients) showed: very low-risk, 3.9%; low-risk, 30.9%; intermediate-risk, 24.2%; high-risk, 21%; very high-risk, 20%. Age-adjustment (IPSS-RA) raised the very low-risk group to 12.4%; the other groups decreased by 1-3% each.

CONCLUSION

The most significant finding of this cytogenetic analysis of MDS in India is that abnormal karyotypes with poor prognosis markers including monosomy 7 and CK were more frequent than in most other reports, among patients who were overall younger. Trisomy 8, deletion 20q, the IPSS-R intermediate-risk and both high-risk groups were more common than in the West. Trisomy 8 was less common than in South-East Asia while CK and deletion 20q were comparable. Evaluation of such large cohorts highlights the unique features of MDS in different parts of the world. These findings suggest that there could be differences in predisposing factors, environmental or genetic, and emphasise the need for further exploration to better understand the varied nature of MDS.

Contemporary Approach to the Diagnosis and Classification of Myelodysplastic Neoplasms/Syndromes-Recommendations From the International Consortium for Myelodysplastic Neoplasms/Syndromes (MDS [icMDS])

Myelodysplastic neoplasms/syndromes (MDS) are a heterogeneous group of biologically distinct entities characterized by variable degrees of ineffective hematopoiesis. Recently, 2 classification systems (the 5th edition of the World Health Organization Classification of Haematolymphoid tTumours and the International Consensus Classification) further subcharacterized MDS into morphologically and genetically defined groups. Accurate diagnosis and subclassification of MDS require a multistep systemic approach. The International Consortium for MDS (icMDS) summarizes a contemporary, practical, and multimodal approach to MDS diagnosis and classification.

Trisomy 8 Defines a Distinct Subtype of Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Driven by the MYC-Alarmin Axis

Despite advances in understanding the genetic abnormalities in myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) and the development of JAK2 inhibitors, there is an urgent need to devise new treatment strategies, particularly for patients with triple-negative (TN) myelofibrosis (MF) who lack mutations in the JAK2 kinase pathway and have very poor clinical outcomes. Here we report that MYC copy number gain and increased MYC expression frequently occur in TN-MF and that MYC-directed activation of S100A9, an alarmin protein that plays pivotal roles in inflammation and innate immunity, is necessary and sufficient to drive development and progression of MF. Notably, the MYC-S100A9 circuit provokes a complex network of inflammatory signaling that involves numerous hematopoietic cell types in the bone marrow microenvironment. Accordingly, genetic ablation of S100A9 or treatment with small molecules targeting the MYC-S100A9 pathway effectively ameliorates MF phenotypes, highlighting the MYC-alarmin axis as a novel therapeutic vulnerability for this subgroup of MPNs. Significance: This study establishes that MYC expression is increased in TN-MPNs via trisomy 8, that a MYC-S100A9 circuit manifest in these cases is sufficient to provoke myelofibrosis and inflammation in diverse hematopoietic cell types in the BM niche, and that the MYC-S100A9 circuit is targetable in TN-MPNs.

Optimal Treatment Approaches to Intestinal Behçet's Disease Complicated by Myelodysplastic Syndrome: The KASID and KSBD Multicenter Study

PURPOSE

Studies on intestinal Behçet's disease (BD) complicated by myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) are rare, and no established therapeutic guidelines exist. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical presentation and outcomes of patients with intestinal BD complicated by MDS (intestinal BD-MDS) and suggest a treatment strategy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data from patients with intestinal BD-MDS from four referral centers in Korea who were diagnosed between December 2000 and December 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical features and prognosis of intestinal BD-MDS compared with age-, sex-matched intestinal BD without MDS were investigated.

RESULTS

Thirty-five patients with intestinal BD-MDS were included, and 24 (70.6%) had trisomy 8. Among the 35 patients, 23 (65.7%) were female, and the median age at diagnosis for intestinal BD was 46.0 years (range, 37.0-56.0 years). Medical treatments only benefited eight of the 32 patients, and half of the patients underwent surgery due to complications. Compared to 70 matched patients with intestinal BD alone, patients with intestinal BD-MDS underwent surgery more frequently (51.4% vs. 24.3%; p=0.010), showed a poorer response to medical and/or surgical treatment (75.0% vs. 11.4%; p<0.001), and had a higher mortality (28.6% vs. 0%; p<0.001). Seven out of 35 patients with intestinal BD-MDS underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), and four out of the seven patients had a poor response to medical treatment prior to HSCT, resulting in complete remission of both diseases.

CONCLUSION

Patients with intestinal BD-MDS frequently have refractory diseases with high mortalities. HSCT can be an effective treatment modality for medically refractory patients with intestinal BD-MDS.

Potential Diagnostic Value of Abnormal Pyroptosis Genes Expression in Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS): A Primary Observational Cohort Study

Background: Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are determined by ineffective hematopoiesis and bone marrow cytological dysplasia with somatic gene mutations and chromosomal abnormalities. Accumulating evidence has revealed the pivotal role of NLRP3 inflammasome activation and pyroptotic cell death in the pathogenesis of MDS. Although MDS can be diagnosed with a variety of morphologic and cytogenetic tests, most of these tests have limitations or problems in practice. Materials and Methods: In the present study, we evaluated the expression of genes that form the inflammasome (NLRP3, ASC, and CASP1) in bone marrow specimens of MDS patients and compared the results with those of other leukemias to evaluate their diagnostic value for MDS. Primary samples of this observational cohort study were collected from aspiration samples of patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (27 cases) and patients with non-myelodysplastic syndrome hematological cancers (45 cases). After RNA extraction and c.DNA synthesis, candidate transcripts and housekeeping transcripts were measured by real-time PCR method (SYBER Green assay). Using Kruskal-Wallis the relative gene expressions were compared and differences with p value less than 0.05 were considered as significant. Discrimination capability, cut-off, and area under curve (AUC) of all markers were analyzed with recessive operation curve (ROC) analysis. Results: We found that Caspase-1 and ASC genes expressed at more levels in MDS specimens compared to non-MDS hematological malignancies. A relative average expression of 10.22 with a p-value of 0.001 and 1.86 with p=0.019 was detected for Caspase-1 and ASC, respectively. ROC curve analysis shows an AUC of 0.739 with p=0.0001 for Caspase-1 and an AUC of 0.665 with p=0.0139 for ASC to MDS discrimination. Conclusion: Our results show that Caspase-1 and ASC gene expression levels can be used as potential biomarkers for MDS diagnosis. Prospective studies with large sample numbers are suggested.

Defining the mutational profile of lower-risk myelodysplastic neoplasm patients with respect to disease progression using next-generation sequencing and pyrosequencing

Introduction

Lower-risk myelodysplastic neoplasms (LR-MDS) comprise the majority of MDS. Despite favourable prognoses, some patients remain at risk of rapid progression. We aimed to define the mutational profile of LR-MDS using next-generation sequencing (NGS), Sanger Sequencing (SSeq), and pyrosequencing.

Material and methods

Samples from 5 primary LR-MDS (67 exons of SF3B1, U2AF1, SRSF2, ZRSR2, TET2, ASXL1, DNMT3A, TP53, and RUNX1 genes) were subjected to NGS. Next, a genomic study was performed to test for the presence of identified DNA sequence variants on a larger group of LR-MDS patients (25 bone marrow [BM], 3 saliva [SAL], and one peripheral blood [PB] sample/s). Both SSeq (all selected DNA sequence variants) and pyrosequencing (9 selected DNA sequence variants) were performed.

Results

Next-generation sequencing results identified 13 DNA sequence variants in 7 genes, comprising 8 mutations in 6 genes (ASXL1, DNMT3A, RUNX1, SF3B1, TET2, ZRSR2) in LR-MDS. The presence of 8 DNA variants was detected in the expanded LR-MDS group using SSeq and pyrosequencing. Mutation acquisition was observed during LR-MDS progression. Four LR-MDS and one acute myeloid leukaemia myelodysplasia-related patient exhibited the presence of at least one mutation. ASXL1 and SF3B1 alterations were most commonly observed (2 patients). Five DNA sequence variants detected in BM (patients: 9, 13) were also present in SAL.

Conclusions

We suggest using NGS to determine the LR-MDS mutational profile at diagnosis and suspicion of disease progression. Moreover, PB and SAL molecular testing represent useful tools for monitoring LR-MDS at higher risk of progression. However, the results need to be confirmed in a larger group.

Cytogenetics in the management of myelodysplastic neoplasms (myelodysplastic syndromes, MDS): Guidelines from the groupe francophone de cytogénétique hématologique (GFCH)

Myelodysplastic neoplasms (MDS) are clonal hematopoietic neoplasms. Chromosomal abnormalities (CAs) are detected in 40-45% of de novo MDS and up to 80% of post-cytotoxic therapy MDS (MDS-pCT). Lately, several changes appeared in World Health Organization (WHO) classification and International Consensus Classification (ICC). The novel 'biallelic TP53 inactivation' (also called 'multi-hit TP53') MDS entity requires systematic investigation of TP53 locus (17p13.1). The ICC maintains CA allowing the diagnosis of MDS without dysplasia (del(5q), del(7q), -7 and complex karyotype). Deletion 5q is the only CA, still representing a low blast class of its own, if isolated or associated with one additional CA other than -7 or del(7q) and without multi-hit TP53. It represents one of the most frequent aberrations in adults' MDS, with chromosome 7 aberrations, and trisomy 8. Conversely, translocations are rarer in MDS. In children, del(5q) is very rare while -7 and del(7q) are predominant. Identification of a germline predisposition is key in childhood MDS. Aberrations of chromosomes 5, 7 and 17 are the most frequent in MDS-pCT, grouped in complex karyotypes. Despite the ever-increasing importance of molecular features, cytogenetics remains a major part of diagnosis and prognosis. In 2022, a molecular international prognostic score (IPSS-M) was proposed, combining the prognostic value of mutated genes to the previous scoring parameters (IPSS-R) including cytogenetics, still essential. A karyotype on bone marrow remains mandatory at diagnosis of MDS with complementary molecular analyses now required. Analyses with FISH or other technologies providing similar information can be necessary to complete and help in case of karyotype failure, for doubtful CA, for clonality assessment, and for detection of TP53 deletion to assess TP53 biallelic alterations.

Inactivation of p53 provides a competitive advantage to del(5q) myelodysplastic syndrome hematopoietic stem cells during inflammation

Inflammation is associated with the pathogenesis of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and emerging evidence suggests that MDS hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPC) exhibit an altered response to inflammation. Deletion of chromosome 5 (del(5q)) is the most common chromosomal abnormality in MDS. Although this MDS subtype contains several haploinsufficient genes that impact innate immune signaling, the effects of inflammation on del(5q) MDS HSPC remains undefined. Utilizing a model of del(5q)-like MDS, inhibiting the IRAK1/4-TRAF6 axis improved cytopenias, suggesting that activation of innate immune pathways contributes to certain clinical features underlying the pathogenesis of low-risk MDS. However, low-grade inflammation in the del(5q)-like MDS model did not contribute to more severe disease but instead impaired the del(5q)-like HSPC as indicated by their diminished numbers, premature attrition and increased p53 expression. Del(5q)-like HSPC exposed to inflammation became less quiescent, but without affecting cell viability. Unexpectedly, the reduced cellular quiescence of del(5q) HSPC exposed to inflammation was restored by p53 deletion. These findings uncovered that inflammation confers a competitive advantage of functionally defective del(5q) HSPC upon loss of p53. Since TP53 mutations are enriched in del(5q) AML following an MDS diagnosis, increased p53 activation in del(5q) MDS HSPC due to inflammation may create a selective pressure for genetic inactivation of p53 or expansion of a pre-existing TP53-mutant clone.

SF3B1 mutation and ATM deletion codrive leukemogenesis via centromeric R-loop dysregulation

RNA splicing factor SF3B1 is recurrently mutated in various cancers, particularly in hematologic malignancies. We previously reported that coexpression of Sf3b1 mutation and Atm deletion in B cells, but not either lesion alone, leads to the onset of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) with CLL cells harboring chromosome amplification. However, the exact role of Sf3b1 mutation and Atm deletion in chromosomal instability (CIN) remains unclear. Here, we demonstrated that SF3B1 mutation promotes centromeric R-loop (cen-R-loop) accumulation, leading to increased chromosome oscillation, impaired chromosome segregation, altered spindle architecture, and aneuploidy, which could be alleviated by removal of cen-R-loop and exaggerated by deletion of ATM. Aberrant splicing of key genes involved in R-loop processing underlay augmentation of cen-R-loop, as overexpression of the normal isoform, but not the altered form, mitigated mitotic stress in SF3B1-mutant cells. Our study identifies a critical role of splice variants in linking RNA splicing dysregulation and CIN and highlights cen-R-loop augmentation as a key mechanism for leukemogenesis.

The fifth edition of the World Health Organization Classification and the International Consensus Classification of myeloid neoplasms: evolving guidelines in the molecular era with practical implications

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

There have been major advances in our understanding of molecular pathogenesis of myeloid neoplasms, which prompt the updates in the classification of myeloid neoplasms in the fifth edition of World Health Organization Classification (WHO-5) and the new International Consensus Classification (ICC). The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of these two classification systems for myeloid neoplasms.

RECENT FINDINGS

The definition, classification, and diagnostic criteria in many myeloid entities have been refined in WHO-5 and ICC with improved understanding of morphology and integration of new genetic findings. Particularly, molecular and cytogenetic studies have been increasingly incorporated into the classification, risk stratification, and selection of therapy of myeloid neoplasms. Overall, despite some revisions and discrepancies between WHO-5 and ICC, the major categories of myeloid neoplasms remain the same. Further validation studies are warranted to fine-tune and, ideally, integrate these two classifications.

SUMMARY

Integration of clinical information, laboratory parameters, morphologic features, and cytogenetic and molecular studies is essential for the classification of myeloid neoplasms, as recommended by both WHO-5 and ICC.

Emerging treatments for myelodysplastic syndromes: Biological rationales and clinical translation

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDSs) are a heterogeneous group of clonal hematopoietic stem cell disorders characterized by myeloid dysplasia, peripheral blood cytopenias, and increased risk of progression to acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The standard of care for patients with MDS is hypomethylating agent (HMA)-based therapy; however, nearly 50% of patients have no response to the treatment. Patients with MDS in whom HMA therapy has failed have a dismal prognosis and no approved second-line therapy options, so enrollment in clinical trials of experimental agents represents these patients' only chance for improved outcomes. A better understanding of the molecular and biological mechanisms underpinning MDS pathogenesis has enabled the development of new agents that target molecular alterations, cell death regulators, signaling pathways, and immune regulatory proteins in MDS. Here, we review novel therapies for patients with MDS in whom HMA therapy has failed, with an emphasis on the biological rationale for these therapies' development.

Cytogenetic peripheral blood monitoring in azacitidine treated patients with high-risk MDS/sAML: A monocentric real-world experience

In this single center retrospective analysis 76 patients with high-risk (HR) myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) treated with azacitidine (AZA) were reviewed for response, especially cytogenetic response (cyR) using repeated chromosome banding analyses (CBA) of bone marrow (bm) metaphases and frequent sequential Fluorescence-in-situ Hybridization (FISH) analyses of immunomagnetically enriched CD34 + circulating peripheral blood cells (CD34 +pb-FISH). In total, 526 CD34 +pb-FISH analyses and 236 CBA were examined. Median observation time was 8.45 months, median number of AZA cycles applied was 8, median overall survival (OS) was 14.9 months, 42.1 % of patients responded to therapy according to IWG criteria: 5 complete response (CR), 0 partial response (PR), 12 bmCR, 15 stable disease with hematologic improvement (HI). HI was reached in 36.8 % of patients, 31.5 % became transfusion-independent. By CBA or CD34 +pb-FISH 20.4 % and 31.6 % of patients showed cyR, respectively. HI rate was significantly higher in cytogenetic responders than in non-responders, but there was no impact on OS or leukemia-free-survival. Cytogenetic responders showed significantly better OS than non-responders. Patients with ≥ 6 AZA cycles had significantly better OS than patients with < 6 cycles applied. Karyotype evolution (KE) as a manifestation of cytogenetic progression was diagnosed in 29.5 % and 17.1 % of patients by CBA and CD34 +pb-FISH, respectively. KE was associated with significantly poorer OS and leukemia-free-survival.

TKIs combined with chemotherapy followed by allo-HSCT in Philadelphia chromosome-positive myelodysplastic syndrome: A case report and literature review

INTRODUCTION

Philadelphia chromosome (Ph) positive myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is a very rare disease. At present, the specific role of Ph in MDS is not clear, but such patients seem to have a poor prognosis, so the disease deserves attention. Here, we describe the history of a woman with Ph-positive MDS and perform a systematic review of related literature.

PATIENT CONCERNS AND DIAGNOSIS

We report a 38-year-old woman with Ph-positive MDS.

INTERVENTIONS AND OUTCOMES

She received chemotherapy with decitabine, cytarabine, aclarubicin, and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (DCAG) combined with imatinib mesylate and achieved a bone marrow remission. She then underwent an allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant. The condition is good and no recurrence of the disease has been observed.

CONCLUSION

Ph-positive MDS is a very rare disease. Ph may aid in the malignant progression of MDS leaving such patients with a very poor prognosis. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) plus chemotherapy followed by allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation has provided these patients with satisfactory outcomes.

Myelodysplastic syndromes

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a family of myeloid cancers with diverse genotypes and phenotypes characterized by ineffective haematopoiesis and risk of transformation to acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). Some epidemiological data indicate that MDS incidence is increasing in resource-rich regions but this is controversial. Most MDS cases are caused by randomly acquired somatic mutations. In some patients, the phenotype and/or genotype of MDS overlaps with that of bone marrow failure disorders such as aplastic anaemia, paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH) and AML. Prognostic systems, such as the revised International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS-R), provide reasonably accurate predictions of survival at the population level. Therapeutic goals in individuals with lower-risk MDS include improving quality of life and minimizing erythrocyte and platelet transfusions. Therapeutic goals in people with higher-risk MDS include decreasing the risk of AML transformation and prolonging survival. Haematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) can cure MDS, yet fewer than 10% of affected individuals receive this treatment. However, how, when and in which patients with HCT for MDS should be performed remains controversial, with some studies suggesting HCT is preferred in some individuals with higher-risk MDS. Advances in the understanding of MDS biology offer the prospect of new therapeutic approaches.

Myelodysplastic Syndromes with Isolated del(5q): Value of Molecular Alterations for Diagnostic and Prognostic Assessment

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of clonal hematological neoplasms characterized by ineffective hematopoiesis in one or more bone marrow cell lineages. Consequently, patients present with variable degrees of cytopenia and dysplasia. These characteristics constitute the basis for the World Health Organization (WHO) classification criteria of MDS, among other parameters, for the current prognostic scoring system. Although nearly half of newly diagnosed patients present a cytogenetic alteration, and almost 90% of them harbor at least one somatic mutation, MDS with isolated del(5q) constitutes the only subtype clearly defined by a cytogenetic alteration. The results of several clinical studies and the advances of new technologies have allowed a better understanding of the biological basis of this disease. Therefore, since the first report of the "5q- syndrome" in 1974, changes and refinements have been made in the definition and the characteristics of the patients with MDS and del(5q). Moreover, specific genetic alterations have been found to be associated with the prognosis and response to treatments. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge of the molecular background of MDS with isolated del(5q), focusing on the clinical and prognostic relevance of cytogenetic alterations and somatic mutations.

Navigating the contested borders between myelodysplastic syndrome and acute myeloid leukemia

Myelodysplastic syndrome and acute myeloid leukemia are heterogeneous myeloid neoplasms which arise from the accumulation of mutations in a myeloid stem cell or progenitor that confer survival or growth advantages. These disease processes are formally differentiated by clinical, laboratory, and morphological presentations, especially with regard to the preponderance of blasts in the peripheral blood or bone marrow (AML); however, they are closely associated through their shared lineage as well as their existence on a spectrum with some cases of MDS displaying increased blasts, a feature that reflects more AML-like behavior, and the propensity for MDS to transform into AML. It is increasingly recognized that the distinctions between these two entities result from the divergent patterns of genetic alterations that drive each of them. Mutations in genes related to chromatin-remodeling and the spliceosome are seen in both MDS and AML arising out of antecedent MDS, while mutations in genes related to signaling pathways such as RAS or FLT3 are more typically seen in AML or otherwise are a harbinger of transformation. In this review, we focus on the insights into the biological and genetic distinctions and similarities between MDS and AML that are now used to refine clinical prognostication, guide disease management, and to inform development of novel therapeutic approaches.

The genetics of myelodysplastic syndromes and the opportunities for tailored treatments

Genomic instability, microenvironmental aberrations, and somatic mutations contribute to the phenotype of myelodysplastic syndrome and the risk for transformation to AML. Genes involved in RNA splicing, DNA methylation, histone modification, the cohesin complex, transcription, DNA damage response pathway, signal transduction and other pathways constitute recurrent mutational targets in MDS. RNA-splicing and DNA methylation mutations seem to occur early and are reported as driver mutations in over 50% of MDS patients. The improved understanding of the molecular landscape of MDS has led to better disease and risk classification, leading to novel therapeutic opportunities. Based on these findings, novel agents are currently under preclinical and clinical development and expected to improve the clinical outcome of patients with MDS in the upcoming years. This review provides a comprehensive update of the normal gene function as well as the impact of mutations in the pathogenesis, deregulation, diagnosis, and prognosis of MDS, focuses on the most recent advances of the genetic basis of myelodysplastic syndromes and their clinical relevance, and the latest targeted therapeutic approaches including investigational and approved agents for MDS.

Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells: New Insights into the Pathogenesis and Therapy of MDS

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are hematopoietic malignancies characterized by the clonal expansion of hematopoietic stem cells, bone marrow failure manifested by cytopenias, and increased risk for evolving to acute myeloid leukemia. Despite the fact that the acquisition of somatic mutations is considered key for the initiation of the disease, the bone marrow microenvironment also plays significant roles in MDS by providing the right niche and even shaping the malignant clone. Aberrant immune responses are frequent in MDS and are implicated in many aspects of MDS pathogenesis. Recently, myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) have gained attention for their possible implication in the immune dysregulation associated with MDS. Here, we summarize the key findings regarding the expansion of MDSCs in MDS, their role in MDS pathogenesis and immune dysregulation, as well their potential as a new therapeutic target for MDS.

Myelodysplastic Syndrome: Diagnosis and Screening

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are heterogeneous groups of clonal myeloid disorders characterized by unexplained persistent peripheral blood (PB) cytopenia(s) of one or more of the hematopoietic lineages, or bone marrow (BM) morphologic dysplasia in hematopoietic cells, recurrent genetic abnormalities, and an increased risk of progression to acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In the past several years, diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic approaches have substantially improved with the development of Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) diagnostic testing and new medications. However, there is no single diagnostic parameter specific for MDS, and correlations with clinical information, and laboratory test findings are needed to reach the diagnosis.

The significance of CUX1 and chromosome 7 in myeloid malignancies

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Loss of chromosome 7 has long been associated with adverse-risk myeloid malignancy. In the last decade, CUX1 has been identified as a critical tumor suppressor gene (TSG) located within a commonly deleted segment of chromosome arm 7q. Additional genes encoded on 7q have also been identified as bona fide myeloid tumor suppressors, further implicating chromosome 7 deletions in disease pathogenesis. This review will discuss the clinical implications of del(7q) and CUX1 mutations, both in disease and clonal hematopoiesis, and synthesize recent literature on CUX1 and other chromosome 7 TSGs.

RECENT FINDINGS

Two major studies, including a new mouse model, have been published that support a role for CUX1 inactivation in the development of myeloid neoplasms. Additional recent studies describe the cellular and hematopoietic effects from loss of the 7q genes LUC7L2 and KMT2C/MLL3, and the implications of chromosome 7 deletions in clonal hematopoiesis.

SUMMARY

Mounting evidence supports CUX1 as being a key chromosome 7 TSG. As 7q encodes additional myeloid regulators and tumor suppressors, improved models of chromosome loss are needed to interrogate combinatorial loss of these critical 7q genes.

Should We Look beyond Revised International Prognostic Scoring System: A Retrospective Observational Study of Progression of Myelodysplastic Syndrome to Acute Leukemia

Introduction Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is a clonal stem cell disorder and heterogeneous condition resulting in peripheral cytopenias with marrow dysplasia due to ineffective hematopoiesis. The revised International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS-R) predicts the risk of progression to acute leukemia (AL). Indian data on MDS and its progression to AL are limited. Additionally, the cytogenetic findings are dictated by patients' racial background. Study intended to analyze the cytogenetic profile of the patients with MDS.

Objectives This study aimed to (1) evaluate the clinicohematologic and morphologic spectrum of newly diagnosed MDS cases, (2) evaluate the cytogenetic profile of these cases, and (3) study the cases progressed to AL.

Materials and Methods MDS cases diagnosed and followed-up during a 5-year study period, from January 2015 to December 2019, were included in the study and the study was conducted at regional cancer center in Western India. De novo diagnosed MDS cases with complete workup were considered and MDS due to secondary causes were excluded. Baseline clinical, hematologic findings were tabulated along with cytogenetics and risk stratified as per IPSS-R, and their progression was studied.

Results A total of 63 cases of de novo MDS were diagnosed over a period of 5 years with 45 cases on follow-up and 15 cases (33.3%) progressed to AL. Maximum number of cases belonged to MDS-excess blast (EB) category accounting to 48 cases (76.1%). Apparently normal karyotyping was the commonest cytogenetic finding in 33 MDS cases (61.2%) and in 8 cases that progressed to AL (53.4%).

Conclusion MDS cases diagnosed at relatively early age were at higher risk of progression to AL. Majority of the cases that progressed to AL were risk stratified in high and very high risk groups and 10 cases which progressed to AL belonged to good category, interestingly apparent normal karyotyping was the commonest cytogenetic finding in more than 50% of the cases progressed to AL. Molecular mutations could only explain this progression and studies integrating molecular mutations with present IPSS-R scoring system should be conducted, as it could translate into better risk stratification and help in early identification and better management of cases at risk in progression to AL.

Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification identifies copy number changes in normal and undetectable karyotype MDS patients

Chromosomal abnormalities play an important role in classification and prognostication of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) patients. However, more than 50% of low-risk MDS patients harbor a normal karyotype. Recently, multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) has emerged as an effective and robust method for the detection of cytogenetic aberrations in MDS patients. To characterize the subset of MDS with normal karyotype or failed chromosome banding analysis, we analyzed 144 patient samples with normal karyotype or undetectable through regular chromosome banding analysis, which were subjected to parallel comparison via fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and MLPA. MLPA identifies copy number changes in 16.7% of 144 MDS patients, and we observed a significant difference in overall survival (OS) (median OS: undefined vs 27 months, p=0.0071) in patients with normal karyotype proved by MLPA versus aberrant karyotype cohort as determined by MLPA. Interestingly, patients with undetectable karyotype via regular chromosome banding indicated inferior outcome. Collectively, MDS patients with normal or undetectable karyotype via chromosome banding analysis can be further clarified by MLPA, providing more prognostic information that benefit for individualized therapy.

The utility of a myeloid mutation panel for the diagnosis of myelodysplastic syndrome and myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative neoplasm

INTRODUCTION

The diagnosis of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative neoplasms (MDS/MPN) is based on morphology and cytogenetics/FISH findings per 2017 WHO classification. With rare exceptions, somatic mutations have not been incorporated as the diagnostic criteria.

METHODS

We analyzed the utility of mutational analysis with a targeted 54-gene or 40-gene next-generation sequencing (NGS) panel in the diagnosis of MDS and MDS/MPN.

RESULTS

We retrospectively collected 92 patients who presented with unexplained cytopenia with or without cytosis, including 32 low-grade MDS (MDS-L), 18 high-grade MDS (MDS-H), 5 therapy-related MDS (MDS-TR), 19 MDS/MPN, and 18 negative cases. Of 92 patients, 197 somatic mutations involving 38 genes were detected and had variant allele frequency (VAF) ranging from 3% to 99%. The most common mutated genes were TET2, ASXL1, RUNX1, TP53, SRSF2, and SF3B1. MDS-L, MDS-H, MDS-TR, and MDS/MPN showed an average number of somatic mutations with a mean VAF of 1.9/33%, 2.6/30%, 2/36%, and 4/41%, respectively. SF3B1 mutations were exclusively observed in MDS-L and MDS/MPN. TP53 gene mutations were more frequently seen in MDS-H and MDS-TR. Among 34 patients with a diagnosis of MDS or MDS/MPN with normal cytogenetics, 31 patients (91%) had at least 1 mutation and 24 patients (71%) had ≥2 mutations with ≥10% VAF.

CONCLUSION

A myeloid mutational panel provides additional evidence of clonality besides cytogenetics/FISH studies in the diagnosis of cytopenia with or without cytosis. Two or more mutations with ≥10% VAF highly predicts MDS and MDS/MPN with a positive predictive value of 100%.

Lenalidomide for anemia correction in lower-risk del(5q) myelodysplastic syndrome patients of Asian ethnicity

Background

To estimate real-world outcomes in East Asian populations, we conducted a nationwide retrospective analysis of the efficacy and safety of lenalidomide for del(5q) myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) patients with transfusion-dependent anemia in Korea.

Methods

Patients aged ≥19 years who had received lenalidomide for the treatment of lower-risk, red blood cell (RBC) transfusion-dependent del(5q) MDS were selected. A filled case report form (CRF) with information from electronic medical records was requested from members of the acute myeloid leukemia (AML)/MDS Working Party of the Korean Society of Hematology. All the CRFs were gathered and analyzed.

Results

A total of 31 patients were included in this study. Of 28 evaluable patients, 19 (67.9%) achieved RBC transfusion independence (RBC-TI). Female sex and the development of thrombocytopenia during treatment were associated with achieving RBC-TI. The most common non-hematologic toxicities were pruritus, fatigue, and rashes. All non-hematologic toxicities of grades ≥3 were limited to rash (12.9%) and pruritus (6.5%). Dose reduction was required in 15 of the 19 responders (78.9%). The most common final stable dosing schedule for the responders was 5 mg once every other day (31.6%).

Conclusion

Lenalidomide efficacy and tolerability were similar in the Asian del(5q) MDS patients and western patients. Dose reduction during treatment was common, but it was not associated with inferior outcomes.

The utility of a single tube 10-color flow cytometry for quantitative and qualitative analysis in myelodysplastic syndrome- a pilot study

INTRODUCTION

Assessment of myelodysplasia (MDS) by flow cytometry (FCM) includes elaborate panels, and interpretation is observer-dependent. This study evaluates single tube 10-color FCM in a test cohort of clinically suspected MDS patients.

METHODS

We analyzed fifty-six bone marrow (BM) samples from clinically suspected MDS patients in a morphology-blinded manner along with controls using a 10-color single tube flow cytometry. We analyzed the reproducibility of Ogata score and modified FCM scores, additionally incorporating the proportion of CD15, CD11b, CD56, and CD38MFI on CD34+CD19-cluster for each patient. Patients were grouped as proven-MDS, suspected-MDS, and non-MDS groups based on morphology and cytogenetics. Optimized multi-axial radar-plots were also used to analyze maturation patterns in the granulocytic, monocytic, and blast progenitor compartments of proven-MDS cases and controls.

RESULTS

Flow cytometric abnormalities ≥3 were present in proven-MDS (n = 23) with a sensitivity and specificity of 78 % and 94 %, respectively, as per Ogata score. The addition of CD38 MFI to the score yielded sensitivity and specificity of 82 % and 88 %, respectively. Additional analysis of aberrant expression of CD15, CD11b, and CD56 increased the diagnostic power of the FCM score. A qualitative analysis of data also showed differences in maturation patterns in proven-MDS compared to the control group.

CONCLUSION

Single tube 10-color FCM scoring, including Ogata score, modified-FCM scores, and radar plots pattern analysis, showed significant abnormalities in proven-MDS cases in this pilot study. Large databases, including FCM-scoring and pattern-based analysis for normal BM maturation, could be further validated and standardized for screening MDS.

Computational flow cytometry as a diagnostic tool in suspected-myelodysplastic syndromes

The diagnostic work‐up of patients suspected for myelodysplastic syndromes is challenging and mainly relies on bone marrow morphology and cytogenetics. In this study, we developed and prospectively validated a fully computational tool for flow cytometry diagnostics in suspected‐MDS. The computational diagnostic workflow consists of methods for pre‐processing flow cytometry data, followed by a cell population detection method (FlowSOM) and a machine learning classifier (Random Forest). Based on a six tubes FC panel, the workflow obtained a 90% sensitivity and 93% specificity in an independent validation cohort. For practical advantages (e.g., reduced processing time and costs), a second computational diagnostic workflow was trained, solely based on the best performing single tube of the training cohort. This workflow obtained 97% sensitivity and 95% specificity in the prospective validation cohort. Both workflows outperformed the conventional, expert analyzed flow cytometry scores for diagnosis with respect to accuracy, objectivity and time investment (less than 2 min per patient).

Myelodysplastic syndromes and overlap syndromes

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a heterogeneous group of clonal hematological neoplasms characterized by ineffective hematopoiesis, morphologic dysplasia, and cytopenia. MDS overlap syndromes include various disorders, such as myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative neoplasms and hypoplastic MDS with aplastic anemia characteristics. MDS overlap syndromes share the characteristics of other diseases, which make differential diagnoses challenging. Advances in genomic studies have led to the discovery of frequent mutations in MDS and overlap syndromes; however, most of the mutations are not specific for the diagnosis of these diseases. The molecular characteristics of the overlap syndromes usually do not show a just "in-between" form but rather heterogeneous features. Established diagnostic criteria for these diseases based on clinical, morphologic, and laboratory features are still useful when combined with genomic data. It is expected that further studies for MDS and overlap syndromes will place emphasis on the roles of mutations as therapeutic targets and prognostic indicators.

Expression of mRNA TNFα and level of protein TNFα after exposure sCD40L in bone marrow mononuclear cells of myelodysplastic syndromes

Background

Cytopenia is the primary phenomenon in myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) amidst hypercellular bone marrow. The soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L) is considered as a cytokine that can trigger synthesis of tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) that promotes apoptosis. The objective of this study is to prove that recombinant human sCD40L (rh-sCD40L) exposure on bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMC) MDS increases TNFα expression at mRNA level and at protein level.

Methods

BMMC from MDS patients whom diagnosed and classified using the WHO 2008 criteria, were exposed to rh-sCD40L and antiCD40L. The expressions of TNFα mRNAs were quantified by qRT-PCR, level of TNFα were measured using the ELISA method.

Results

Exposure of rh-sCD40L significantly increased the expression of TNFα mRNA. The similar exposure also significantly increased the level of TNFα compared to controls. TNFα mRNA expression on BMMC in MDS samples exposed to rh-sCD40L is 3.32 times compared to TNFα mRNA expression without exposure. level of TNFα in supernatant media exposed to rh-sCD40L in MDS samples was higher than that of control samples which were 44.44 and 4.85 pg/mL, P=0.018.

Conclusions

The sCD40L plays a role in increasing the synthesis of TNFα in mRNA level and protein level in BMMC MDS.

Molecular Pathogenesis and Treatment of Myelodysplastic Syndromes

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are clonal hematological disorders arising from hematopoietic stem cells that have accumulated various genetic abnormalities. MDS are heterogeneous in nature but uniformly characterized by chronic and progressive cytopenia from ineffective hematopoiesis, dysplasia in single or multiple lineages, and transformation to acute leukemia in a subset of patients. The genomic landscape revealed by next-generation sequencing has provided a comprehensive picture of the molecular pathways involved in MDS pathogenesis. Recurrent mutational targets in MDS are the genes involved in RNA splicing, DNA methylation, histone modification, transcription, signal transduction, cohesin complex and DNA repair. Sequential acquisition of mutations in these sets of genes serves as a driver for the initiation, clonal evolution and progression of MDS. Based on these findings, novel agents targeting driver mutations of MDS are currently under development and expected to improve the clinical outcome of MDS in the coming decades.

Venetoclax and hypomethylating agent therapy in high risk myelodysplastic syndromes: a retrospective evaluation of a real-world experience

Treatment with hypomethylating agents (HMAs) azacitidine or decitabine is the current standard of care for high risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDSs) but is associated with low rates of response. The limited number of treatment options for patients with high risk MDS highlights a need for new therapeutic options. Venetoclax is an inhibitor of the BCL-2 protein which, when combined with an HMA, has shown high response rates in unfit and previously untreated acute myeloid leukemia. We performed a retrospective study of high risk MDS patients receiving combination HMA plus venetoclax in order to determine their effectiveness in this context. We show that in our cohort, the combination results in high response rates but is associated with a high frequency of myelosuppression. These data highlight the efficacy of combination HMA plus venetoclax in high risk MDS, warranting further prospective evaluation in clinical trials.

Unravelling the Epigenome of Myelodysplastic Syndrome: Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Response to Therapy

Simple Summary

Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is a type of blood cancer that mostly affects older individuals. Invasive tests to obtain bone samples are used to diagnose MDS and many patients do not respond to therapy or stop responding to therapy in the short-term. Less invasive tests to help diagnose, prognosticate, and predict response of patients is a felt need. Factors that influence gene expression without changing the DNA sequence (epigenetic modifiers) such as DNA methylation, micro-RNAs and long-coding RNAs play an important role in MDS, are potential biomarkers and may also serve as targets for therapy.

Abstract

Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is a malignancy that disrupts normal blood cell production and commonly affects our ageing population. MDS patients are diagnosed using an invasive bone marrow biopsy and high-risk MDS patients are treated with hypomethylating agents (HMAs) such as decitabine and azacytidine. However, these therapies are only effective in 50% of patients, and many develop resistance to therapy, often resulting in bone marrow failure or leukemic transformation. Therefore, there is a strong need for less invasive, diagnostic tests for MDS, novel markers that can predict response to therapy and/or patient prognosis to aid treatment stratification, as well as new and effective therapeutics to enhance patient quality of life and survival. Epigenetic modifiers such as DNA methylation, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and micro-RNAs (miRNAs) are perturbed in MDS blasts and the bone marrow micro-environment, influencing disease progression and response to therapy. This review focusses on the potential utility of epigenetic modifiers in aiding diagnosis, prognosis, and predicting treatment response in MDS, and touches on the need for extensive and collaborative research using single-cell technologies and multi-omics to test the clinical utility of epigenetic markers for MDS patients in the future.

Fluorescence in Situ Hybridization (FISH) Utility for Risk Score Assessment in Patients With MDS With Normal Metaphase Karyotype

BACKGROUND

Cytogenetic profile is an essential parameter in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) risk stratification by both International Prognostic Symptom Score (IPSS) and Revised (R)-IPSS. Almost one-half of patients with MDS have normal cytogenetics by metaphase karyotype. Here we report the yield of MDS fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) panel detecting cytogenetic abnormalities in these patients and its impact on risk stratification.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Among patients with normal metaphase karyotype, we assessed those patients who had cytogenetic abnormalities detected by an MDS FISH panel, which included probes for del (5), del (7), del (20), trisomy 8, and del (17p). Risk stratification was calculated by both IPSS and R-IPSS.

RESULTS

Of 1600 patients with MDS with normal metaphase karyotype, 53 (3%) patients had cytogenetic abnormality detected by MDS FISH panel. Integrating the MDS FISH panel cytogenetics (IPSS + FISH restaging) resulted in upstaging the score, where 53% of low-risk IPSS were upstaged to intermediate (int)-1, 56% of int-1 were upstaged to int-2, and 78% of int-2 were upstaged to high risk. Based on the R-IPSS, 61% of very low-risk patients, all low-risk patients, 92% of intermediate-risk patients, and 50% of high-risk patients with FISH abnormalities were upstaged, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The yield of MDS FISH panel detecting cytogenetic abnormalities in patients with normal karyotype by G-banding is low and may not warrant ordering the panel in all patients. Among the 3% of patients with normal karyotype who had cytogenetic abnormality detected by FISH, the risk score assignment by IPSS and R-IPSS was upstaged.

Expression, Regulation and Function of microRNA as Important Players in the Transition of MDS to Secondary AML and Their Cross Talk to RNA-Binding Proteins

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), heterogeneous diseases of hematopoietic stem cells, exhibit a significant risk of progression to secondary acute myeloid leukemia (sAML) that are typically accompanied by MDS-related changes and therefore significantly differ to de novo acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Within these disorders, the spectrum of cytogenetic alterations and oncogenic mutations, the extent of a predisposing defective osteohematopoietic niche, and the irregularity of the tumor microenvironment is highly diverse. However, the exact underlying pathophysiological mechanisms resulting in hematopoietic failure in patients with MDS and sAML remain elusive. There is recent evidence that the post-transcriptional control of gene expression mediated by microRNAs (miRNAs), long noncoding RNAs, and/or RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) are key components in the pathogenic events of both diseases. In addition, an interplay between RBPs and miRNAs has been postulated in MDS and sAML. Although a plethora of miRNAs is aberrantly expressed in MDS and sAML, their expression pattern significantly depends on the cell type and on the molecular make-up of the sample, including chromosomal alterations and single nucleotide polymorphisms, which also reflects their role in disease progression and prediction. Decreased expression levels of miRNAs or RBPs preventing the maturation or inhibiting translation of genes involved in pathogenesis of both diseases were found. Therefore, this review will summarize the current knowledge regarding the heterogeneity of expression, function, and clinical relevance of miRNAs, its link to molecular abnormalities in MDS and sAML with specific focus on the interplay with RBPs, and the current treatment options. This information might improve the use of miRNAs and/or RBPs as prognostic markers and therapeutic targets for both malignancies.

Cytogenetic and cytokine profile in elderly patients with cytopenia

In the elderly with cytopenia, the diagnosis of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) may be missed. Cytokine levels contribute to the pathology of MDS. Hence, the objectives were to evaluate cytogenetic profile as a prognostic indicator in risk stratification and cytokine levels as a screening tool in patients with cytopenia for diagnosis. Over 2 years (2016-2018), 150 elderly patients were screened. MDS diagnosis was confirmed by morphology. Interleukin-2 (IL-2) and IL-6 levels were assessed in 50 patients, and karyotyping was performed in 20 confirmed cases of MDS. Age-matched healthy controls were used for comparison of cytokine levels. Among 150 patients, 88.6% had anemia, including nutritional anemia (51.2%). MDS diagnosis was confirmed in 35 patients. In 15 patients, unexplained cytopenia (UC) was present. Karyotyping in 20 MDS patients was normal in 15 (75%) patients and revealed a complex karyotype in four (20%) patients and double chromosomal abnormality in one (5%) patient. The Revised International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS-R) scored 91% in the low-risk group and 9% (n = 3) in the high-risk group; the latter three developed acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and two of them had a 7q deletion. Among the 15 cases of UC, one patient died from refractory anemia. No significant difference in levels of IL-2 and IL-6 were found between MDS and UC patients when compared with healthy controls, as well as between different risk groups and karyotypes. A significant difference in IL-2 levels was found in MDS patients with disease progression and with stable disease. On the basis of the findings, it is suggested that IL-2 levels will help in predicting disease progression.

Genetics of progression from MDS to secondary leukemia

Our understanding of the genetics of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) development from myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) has advanced significantly as a result of next-generation sequencing technology. Although differences in cell biology and maturation exist between MDS and AML secondary to MDS, these 2 diseases are genetically related. MDS and secondary AML cells harbor mutations in many of the same genes and functional categories, including chromatin modification, DNA methylation, RNA splicing, cohesin complex, transcription factors, cell signaling, and DNA damage, confirming that they are a disease continuum. Differences in the frequency of mutated genes in MDS and secondary AML indicate that the order of mutation acquisition is not random during progression. In almost every case, disease progression is associated with clonal evolution, typically defined by the expansion or emergence of a subclone with a unique set of mutations. Monitoring tumor burden and clonal evolution using sequencing provides advantages over using the blast count, which underestimates tumor burden, and could allow for early detection of disease progression prior to clinical deterioration. In this review, we outline advances in the study of MDS to secondary AML progression, with a focus on the genetics of progression, and discuss the advantages of incorporating molecular genetic data in the diagnosis, classification, and monitoring of MDS to secondary AML progression. Because sequencing is becoming routine in the clinic, ongoing research is needed to define the optimal assay to use in different clinical situations and how the data can be used to improve outcomes for patients with MDS and secondary AML.

Chromosomal Abnormalities in Myelodysplastic Syndrome Patients in Upper Northern Thailand

Objective:

Chromosome detection is important in the diagnosis and prognosis of Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) patients. About 50% of MDS patients have chromosomal abnormalities. Moreover, chromosome 5 and 7 are common genetic abnormalities in MDS patients and use to identify prognosis risk group and the proper treatment in MDS patients. The objective of this study was to evaluate chromosomal abnormalities and clinical features of MDS patients in upper northern Thailand.

Methods:

Fifty bone marrow (BM) specimens were examined by conventional cytogenetic (CC) technique and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) technique for detected chromosome 5 and 7 abnormalities. The clinical features were comparison between MDS patients with chromosomal abnormalities and those with normal karyotype.

Results:

Chromosomal abnormalities were detected in 8/50 MDS patients by CC and 17/50 cases by FISH technique. When the CC and FISH techniques were combined, chromosomal abnormalities increased to 21/50 cases. Abnormalities of isolated chromosome 5 were found in 13 cases and were associated with lower level of percentage blast of BM (p = 0.003) and higher level of hemoglobin (p = 0.019). Moreover, abnormalities of chromosome 7 were found in 3 cases, 1 case of isolated del(7q) and 2 cases of -7 and del(7q) with complex abnormalities. These three cases were associated with higher level of percentage blast of BM (p = 0.010).

Conclusion:

This study showed the frequency and pattern of chromosomal abnormalities of MDS patients in upper northern Thailand were different from other populations. MDS with isolated chromosome 5 abnormalities had clinical characteristics corresponding with patients in good prognosis risk group. However, MDS patients with chromosome 7 and complex abnormalities showed higher percentage blast of BM which high risk to progression to acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Combined CC and FISH techniques detect chromosomal abnormalities with greater frequency than when either technique is used alone.

In myelodysplastic syndrome cases, what should be the level of ferritin which has prognostic value?

OBJECTIVES

Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is a highly mortal disease in which anemia is unresponsive to treatment. In this study, the effect of basal ferritin values on prognosis and survival was investigated in MDS patients without history of transfusion.

METHODS

Data were retrospectively analyzed for 62 MDS cases. The cases were divided into two groups according to ferritin values.

RESULTS

The mean survival time was 61.1±4.8 months. During the follow-up period, 34 (54.8%) patients deceased. Median ferritin level was 358ng/mL. The serum ferritin (SF) level associated with mortality was determined as 400ng/mL (ROC area for SF was 0.731 with a cutoff value of 400; sensitivity and specificity were 70.7% and 68.2%, respectively) (P=0.002). There were 29 (46.8%) patients with serum ferritin levels of ≥400ng/mL. Patients with serum ferritin levels≥400ng/mL had low survival rates. Ferritin≥400ng/mL was associated with six times increased mortality (P=0.001).

CONCLUSION

Although the acceptable ferritin level at the start of chelation therapy is 1000ng/mL, the fact that 400ng/mL value is associated with survival in our study suggests that it may be useful to start chelation therapy in the early period. Further case studies on the subject are required.

Reprogramming identifies functionally distinct stages of clonal evolution in myelodysplastic syndromes

Myeloid neoplasms, including myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), are genetically heterogeneous disorders driven by clonal acquisition of somatic mutations in hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HPCs). The order of premalignant mutations and their impact on HPC self-renewal and differentiation remain poorly understood. We show that episomal reprogramming of MDS patient samples generates induced pluripotent stem cells from single premalignant cells with a partial complement of mutations, directly informing the temporal order of mutations in the individual patient. Reprogramming preferentially captured early subclones with fewer mutations, which were rare among single patient cells. To evaluate the functional impact of clonal evolution in individual patients, we differentiated isogenic MDS induced pluripotent stem cells harboring up to 4 successive clonal abnormalities recapitulating a progressive decrease in hematopoietic differentiation potential. SF3B1, in concert with epigenetic mutations, perturbed mitochondrial function leading to accumulation of damaged mitochondria during disease progression, resulting in apoptosis and ineffective erythropoiesis. Reprogramming also informed the order of premalignant mutations in patients with complex karyotype and identified 5q deletion as an early cytogenetic anomaly. The loss of chromosome 5q cooperated with TP53 mutations to perturb genome stability, promoting acquisition of structural and karyotypic abnormalities. Reprogramming thus enables molecular and functional interrogation of preleukemic clonal evolution, identifying mitochondrial function and chromosome stability as key pathways affected by acquisition of somatic mutations in MDS.

[Clonal evolution and clinical significance of trisomy 8 in acquired bone marrow failure]

Objective: To analyze clonal evolution and clinical significance of trisomy 8 in patients with acquired bone marrow failure. Methods: The clinical data of 63 patients with acquired bone marrow failure accompanied with isolated trisomy 8 (+8) from June 2011 to September 2018 were analyzed retrospectively, the clonal evolution patterns and relationship with immmunosuppressive therapy were summarized. Results: Totally 24 male and 39 female patients were enrolled, including 39 patients with aplastic anemia (AA) and 24 patients with relatively low-risk myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) . Mean size of+8 clone in MDS patients[65% (15%-100%) ]was higher than that of AA patients[25% (4.8%-100%) , z=3.48, P=0.001]. The patients were was divided into three groups (<30%, 30%-<50%,and ≥50%) according to the proportion of+8 clone. There was significant difference among the three groups between AA[<30%:55.6% (20/36) ; 30-50%: 22.2% (8/36) ; ≥50%22.2% (8/36) ]and MDS patients[<30%:19.0% (4/21) ; 30%-<50%:19.0% (4/21) ; ≥50%61.9% (13/21) ] (P=0.007) . The proportion of AA patients with+8 clone <30% was significantly higher than that of MDS patients (P=0.002) ; and the proportion of AA patients with+8 clone ≥50%was significantly lower than that of MDS patients (P=0.002) . The median age of AA and MDS patients was respectively 28 (7-61) years old and 48.5 (16-72) years old. Moreover, there was no correlation between age and+8 clone size in AA or MDS (r(s)=0.109, P=0.125; r(s)=-0.022, P=0.924, respectively) . There was statistical difference in total iron binding capacity, transferrin and erythropoietin between high and low clone group of AA patients (P=0.016, P=0.046, P=0.012, respectively) , but no significant difference in MDS patients. The immunosuppressive therapy (IST) efficacy of AA and MDS patients was respectively 66.7% and 43.8% (P=0.125) . Comparing with initial clone size (27.3%) , the +8 clone size (45%) of AA patients was increased 1-2 year after IST, but no statistical difference (z=0.83, P=0.272) . Consistently, there was no significant change between initial clone size (72.5%) and 1-2 year clone size (70.5%) after IST in MDS patients. There was no significant difference in IST efficient rate between +8 clone size expansion and decline group of in AA patients at 0.5-<1, 1-2 and>2 years after IST. We found four dynamic evolution patterns of +8 clone, which were clone persistence (45%) , clone disappearance (30%) , clone emergence (10%) and clone recurrence (15%) . Conclusions: AA patients had a low clone burden, while MDS patients had a high burden of +8 clone. The +8 clone of AA patients didn't significantly expanded after IST, and the changes of +8 clone also had no effect on IST response.

Comparative assessment of conventional chromosomal analysis and fluorescence in situ hybridization in the evaluation of suspected myelodysplastic syndromes: A single institution experience

Background:

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDSs) are a heterogeneous group of clonal hematopoietic neoplasms, roughly half of which harbor cytogenetic abnormalities with diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic significance. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) for the most commonly seen abnormalities (5/5q, –7/7q, +8, and –20/20q–) is routinely performed alongside conventional cytogenetics (CC) in the evaluation of suspected MDS despite conflicting reports of its relative contribution compared to CC alone.

Objectives:

To assess the additional diagnostic and prognostic value of performing concurrent FISH versus CC alone in cases of suspected MDS.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 127 bone marrow samples submitted to our cytogenetic laboratory with a presumptive diagnosis of MDS were evaluated by concurrent CC and an MDS FISH panel.

Results:

CC was used as the gold standard method with 100% sensitivity in detecting suspected MDS-associated cytogenetic abnormalities. FISH alone had a sensitivity of 76%, whereas CC alone achieved a sensitivity of 97%. The addition of FISH did not change the diagnosis nor change the Revised International Prognostic Scoring System score in any patient. Moreover, in 12 cases identified as positive by both CC and FISH, CC identified multiple chromosomal aberrations of clinical significance not interrogated by the FISH probe panel.

Conclusion:

CC alone is sufficiently sensitive in detecting suspected MDS-associated cytogenetic abnormalities that influence clinical decision-making. Routine FISH testing does not provide a significant increase in test sensitivity when an adequate karyotype is obtained. Therefore, FISH testing is best reserved for suspected MDS cases lacking sufficient metaphases.

Jumping translocations: Short telomeres or pathogenic TP53 variants as underlying mechanism in acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome?

Chromosomal rearrangements involving one donor chromosome and two or more recipient chromosomes are called jumping translocations. To date only few cases of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) with jumping translocations have been described and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we analyzed 11 AML and 5 MDS cases with jumping translocations. The cases were analyzed by karyotyping, FISH, telomere length measurement, and next-generation sequencing with an AML/MDS gene panel. Cases with jumping translocations showed significantly (P < .01) shorter telomeres in comparison to healthy age-matched controls. Additional neo-telomeres were found in two cases. In total, eight cases showed recipient chromosomes with a breakpoint in the centromeric region all of them harboring a pathogenic variant in the TP53 gene (n = 6) and/or a loss of TP53 (n = 5). By contrast, no pathogenic variant or loss of TP53 was identified in the six cases showing recipient chromosomes with a breakpoint in the telomeric region. In conclusion, our results divide the cohort of AML and MDS cases with jumping translocations into two groups: the first group with a telomeric breakpoint of the recipient chromosome is characterized by short telomeres and a possibly telomere-based mechanism of chromosomal instability formation. The second group with a centromeric breakpoint of the recipient chromosome is defined by mutation and/or loss of TP53. We, therefore, assume that both critically short telomeres as well as pathogenic variants of TP53 influence jumping translocation formation.

Genetics of MDS

Our knowledge about the genetics of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and related myeloid disorders has been dramatically improved during the past decade, in which revolutionized sequencing technologies have played a major role. Through intensive efforts of sequencing of a large number of MDS genomes, a comprehensive registry of driver mutations recurrently found in a recognizable fraction of MDS patients has been revealed, and ongoing efforts are being made to clarify their impacts on clinical phenotype and prognosis, as well as their role in the pathogenesis of MDS. Among major mutational targets in MDS are the molecules involved in DNA methylations, chromatin modification, RNA splicing, transcription, signal transduction, cohesin regulation, and DNA repair. Showing substantial overlaps with driver mutations seen in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), as well as age-related clonal hematopoiesis in healthy individuals, these mutations are presumed to have a common clonal origin. Mutations are thought to be acquired and positively selected in a well-organized manner to allow for expansion of the initiating clone to compromise normal hematopoiesis, ultimately giving rise to MDS and subsequent transformation to AML in many patients. Significant correlations between mutations suggest the presence of functional interactions between mutations, which dictate disease progression. Mutations are frequently associated with specific disease phenotype, drug response, and clinical outcomes, and thus, it is essential to be familiar with MDS genetics for better management of patients. This review aims to provide a brief overview of the recent progresses in MDS genetics.

From cellular morphology to molecular and epigenetic anomalies of myelodysplastic syndromes

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDSs) are a myeloid neoplasm with a propensity for natural evolution or transformation to acute leukemias (AL) over time. Mechanisms for MDS transformation to AL remain poorly understood but are related to genomic instability, which affects the production of the different cell lineages. Genomic instability is also generated by dysfunctional telomeres. Indeed telomeres, the protective ends of chromosomes are the backbone of genome stability. Nuclear telomere remodeling is an early indicator of nuclear remodeling preceding the onset of genomic instability and MDS. This review aims to revisit the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of MDS from morphology and cytogenetics to molecular and epigenetic mechanisms. Furthermore, this review will highlight and discuss recent breakthroughs in dysfunctional telomeres and nuclear telomere architecture roles in the pathogenesis and physiopathology of MDS in the global context of genomic instability.

Pseudogout: An Autoimmune Paraneoplastic Manifestation of Myelodysplastic Syndrome

Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is often associated with autoimmune paraneoplastic manifestations. Seronegative arthritis is among one of them. Very rarely, pseudogout demonstrated as paraneoplastic autoimmune manifestations of MDS has been adumbrated so far. Our case would be the another addition in the series. Our patient is an 83-year-old male lately diagnosed with MDS. After six months of initial diagnosis, he had a sudden onset episode of pain and swelling involving left wrist. Synovial fluid analysis from respective radiocarpal joint confirmed the presence of intracellular positively birefringent rhomboid shaped crystals of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPPD). This was followed by another two flares of pseudogout involving right knee and lumbar spine at separate time intervals. Each of the episodes mentioned above responded well to intravenous and oral steroids. After the third bout, he was started treatment with azacitidine which showed effective abatement of further episodes of pseudogout up until now.

Aplastic anemia in the elderly: a nationwide survey on behalf of the French Reference Center for Aplastic Anemia

Aplastic anemia is a rare but potentially life-threatening disease that may affect older patients. Data regarding the treatment of aplastic anemia in this ageing population remains scarce. We conducted a retrospective nationwide multicenter study in France to examine current treatments for aplastic anemia patients over 60 years old. Our aims were to evaluate efficacy and tolerance, and to analyze predictive factors for response and survival. Over the course of a decade, 88 patients (median age 68.5 years) were identified in 19 centers, with a median follow up of 2.7 years; 21% had very severe and 36% severe aplastic anemia. We analyzed 184 treatment lines, mostly involving the standard combination of anti-thymocyte globulin and cyclosporine-A (33%), which was also the most frequent first-line treatment (50%). After first-line therapy, 32% of patients achieved a complete response, and 15% a partial response. Responses were significantly better in first line and in patients with good performance status, as well as in those that had followed an anti-thymocyte globulin and cyclosporine-A regimen (overall response rate of 70% after first-line treatment). All treatments were well tolerated by patients, including over the age of 70. Three-year survival was 74.7% (median 7.36 years). Age, Charlson comorbidity index and very severe aplastic anemia were independently associated with mortality. Age, per se, is not a limiting factor to aplastic anemia treatment with anti-thymocyte globulin and cyclosporine-A; this regimen should be used as a first-line treatment in elderly patients if they have a good performance status and low comorbidity index score.

Clinical Implication of Multi-Parameter Flow Cytometry in Myelodysplastic Syndromes

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a challenging group of diseases for clinicians and researchers, as both disease course and pathobiology are highly heterogeneous. In (suspected) MDS patients, multi-parameter flow cytometry can aid in establishing diagnosis, risk stratification and choice of therapy. This review addresses the developments and future directions of multi-parameter flow cytometry scores in MDS. Additionally, we propose an integrated diagnostic algorithm for suspected MDS.

Diagnostic algorithm for lower-risk myelodysplastic syndromes

Rapid advances over the past decade have uncovered the heterogeneous genomic and immunologic landscape of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). This has led to notable improvements in the accuracy and timing of diagnosis and prognostication of MDS, as well as the identification of possible novel targets for therapeutic intervention. For the practicing clinician, however, this increase in genomic, epigenomic, and immunologic knowledge needs consideration in a "real-world" context to aid diagnostic specificity. Although the 2016 revision to the World Health Organization classification for MDS is comprehensive and timely, certain limitations still exist for day-to-day clinical practice. In this review, we describe an up-to-date diagnostic approach to patients with suspected lower-risk MDS, including hypoplastic MDS, and demonstrate the requirement for an "integrated" diagnostic approach. Moreover, in the era of rapid access to massive parallel sequencing platforms for mutational screening, we suggest which patients should undergo such analyses, when such screening should be performed, and how those data should be interpreted. This is particularly relevant given the recent findings describing age-related clonal hematopoiesis.

SAMD9 and SAMD9L in inherited predisposition to ataxia, pancytopenia, and myeloid malignancies

Germline mutations in the SAMD9 and SAMD9L genes, located in tandem on chromosome 7, are associated with a clinical spectrum of disorders including the MIRAGE syndrome, ataxia-pancytopenia syndrome and myelodysplasia and leukemia syndrome with monosomy 7 syndrome. Germline gain-of-function mutations increase SAMD9 or SAMD9L's normal antiproliferative effect. This causes pancytopenia and generally restricted growth and/or specific organ hypoplasia in non-hematopoietic tissues. In blood cells, additional somatic aberrations that reverse the germline mutation's effect, and give rise to the clonal expansion of cells with reduced or no antiproliferative effect of SAMD9 or SAMD9L include complete or partial chromosome 7 loss or loss-of-function mutations in SAMD9 or SAMD9L. Furthermore, the complete or partial loss of chromosome 7q may cause myelodysplastic syndrome in these patients. SAMD9 mutations appear to associate with a more severe disease phenotype, including intrauterine growth restriction, developmental delay and hypoplasia of adrenal glands, testes, ovaries or thymus, and most reported patients died in infancy or early childhood due to infections, anemia and/or hemorrhages. SAMD9L mutations have been reported in a few families with balance problems and nystagmus due to cerebellar atrophy, and may lead to similar hematological disease as seen in SAMD9 mutation carriers, from early childhood to adult years. We review the clinical features of these syndromes, discuss the underlying biology, and interpret the genetic findings in some of the affected family members. We provide expert-based recommendations regarding diagnosis, follow-up, and treatment of mutation carriers.

Therapy-associated myelodysplastic syndrome with monosomy 7 arising in a Muir-Torre Syndrome patient carrying SETBP1 mutation

Muir-Torre Syndrome (MTS) is a rare hereditary autosomal dominant cancer syndrome and is linked to hereditary non-polyposis colorectal carcinoma (Lynch Syndrome). Individuals develop various skin neoplasms in addition to colorectal, endometrial and upper gastrointestinal malignancies. Therapy-associated myelodysplastic syndrome (T-MDS) is an aggressive hematologic malignancy and is considered a pre-leukemic phase. T-MDS is associated with prior exposure to chemo- and radiotherapy that potentially results in DNA damage. The current case report presents a 74-year-old male MTS patient with prior history of solid tumors and radiation therapy with new onset cytopenia. A subsequent bone marrow biopsy revealed multilineage dysplasia with a high blast count and a diagnosis of high grade T-MDS was rendered. FISH and G-banded karyotype analyses revealed 5q deletion and monosomy 7. This is a unique case of T-MDS arising in the setting of MTS. Secondary malignancies including MDS and acute leukemia may occur in cancer survivors and are often associated with an unfavorable prognosis. This case demonstrates the need to be aware of the risk of secondary hematologic malignancies in cancer patients and a thorough clinical and lab work-up are warranted in patients with persistent or transfusion requiring cytopenia(s).