Epidemiologic perspectives on myelodysplastic syndromes and leukemia.

The ICD classification of the myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), and the four main features of the descriptive epidemiology of the condition are discussed. MDS is: (1) a rare disease; which may be, (2) on the increase; (3) which primarily affects the elderly; and (4) which predominantly affects men. We reviewed four causal models pertaining to the relationship between MDS and leukemia. These models may be described as: (1) non-biological correlates; (2) biological correlates; (3) early phase; and (4) interactive cause. Each model is described and the evidence in support of or against each is presented.