Book excerpt: Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of clonal myeloid blood disorders that affect older people. As the global population ages, the incidence of these disorders is increasing. As such, healthcare professionals need to be aware of MDS as a possible diagnosis and know how to identify those patients whose condition is most likely to transform to acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Fast Facts: Myelodysplastic Syndromes explains how these disorders are classified, how they present and how prognosis and the risk of transformation to AML are assessed. It also outlines the most appropriate management options for patients of different ages, together with an overview of the latest research under way to further understand MDS and how to treat it. This highly readable resource is the ideal primer on MDS for all members of the multidisciplinary team involved in the care of patients with MDS, including hematologists, hematology trainees, clinical nurse specialists and primary care providers. Table of Contents: • Epidemiology and etiology • Pathogenesis and presentation • Diagnosis and classification • Management • Supporting patients with MDS