University of Texas - Medical Branch - Galveston, Texas Patients with SDS usually have bone marrow disease that causes decreased production of blood cells (bone marrow failure). Patients usually have a low white cell count that may be followed by low blood platelets and anemia, SDS patients are at risk of developing myelodysplasia syndrome(MDS). The development of MDS signifies a change in bone marrow cells that increases the risk for developing acute leukemia. Early identification of the signs of MDS would allow the clinician to consider a different therapeutic strategy that may result in a better outcome for the patient. These special studies can give sufficient indications of the change of the disease to the preleukemic phase and the need to change therapy or to monitor the patient closely for acute leukemia. For information contact: Tarek Elghetany, MD (409) 747-2468