Hematologic neoplasms, premalignancies, and malignancies: The Daily PANCE Blueprint

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Hematologic neoplasms, premalignancies, and malignancies: The Daily PANCE Blueprint

A 65-year-old man presents to your clinic reporting persistent fatigue and difficulty breathing over the last two months. His medical history includes successfully treated colorectal cancer, for which he underwent surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. A complete blood count (CBC) reveals pancytopenia, characterized by reduced levels of red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets. Examination of a bone marrow biopsy indicates a hypercellular marrow. What is the most probable diagnosis?

A. Multiple Myeloma
B. Myelodysplastic Syndrome
C. Iron Deficiency Anemia
D. Beta-Thalassemia
E. Aplastic Anemia

Answer and topic summary

The answer is B. Myelodysplastic Syndrome

Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) is the most likely diagnosis given the patient’s history and laboratory findings. MDS is a group of disorders caused by poorly formed or dysfunctional blood cells and is often characterized by a hypercellular marrow with ineffective hematopoiesis, leading to pancytopenia. The patient’s history of chemotherapy and radiation therapy for colorectal cancer increases his risk for developing MDS, as these treatments can contribute to bone marrow damage over time.

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Covered under ⇒ PANCE Blueprint Hematology ⇒ Neoplasms, premalignancies, and malignancies (PEARLS) ⇒ Myelodysplasia