MYELODYSPLASTIC SYNDROMES | Advantages of Iron Chelation Revealed in Analysis of Low-Risk MDS

A study of the data of over 2500 low-risk MDS patients revealed the benefits of iron chelation to reduce transfusion-related iron overload.
A recent groundbreaking study sheds new light on the effectiveness of iron chelation therapy (ICT) for patients suffering from low-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (LR-MDS). By delving into the impact of ICT on red blood cell (RBC) transfusion-related iron overload, the results were revealed at the ASH Annual Meeting 2023.
The study’s extensive analysis involved a staggering 2564 LR-MDS patients and explored real-world ICT applications, making significant progress in the understanding of ICT’s broader implications on patient outcomes.
Focusing on LR-MDS patients aged 66 years and older, this comprehensive research enhanced comprehension of how ICT plays a vital role in managing iron overload. The average age of the participants was 81±6 years, and notably, 56.2% were male. These patients were diagnosed with MDS through the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) – Medicare from 2007 to 2017.
Remarkably, patients who underwent ICT saw a decrease in the need for transfusions, enjoyed enhanced overall survival (OS), and showcased lower chances of progressing to acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and adverse cardiac consequences, especially heart failure. The perks of ICT became even more pronounced for those struggling with iron overload due to repeated transfusions, as nearly 79% witnessed a significant decline in RBC units after starting ICT.
This in-depth analysis not only brought to light the multitude of benefits that ICT offers in boosting survival rates and decreasing the risk of transforming into AML, but also underscored its potential to counteract negative cardiac events – particularly by minimising instances of heart failure. These findings illuminate the favourable outcomes linked to ICT and further our understanding of its positive impact on patients with LR-MDS in real-life situations.
These results offer insights into ICT’s benefits and support consideration for its use in the comprehensive care of patients with LR-MDS.
Source: Utilization Patterns and Outcomes from Iron Chelation in Elderly Patients with Low-Risk Myelodysplastic Syndrome. Presented at ASH 2023. December 9-12, 2023. San Diego, CA. Abstract 914.