D37-D48: Neoplasms of uncertain or unknown behaviour

D46: Myelodysplastic syndromes

Myelodysplastic syndromes are a group of conditions that occur when the blood-forming cells in the bone marrow are damaged. This damage leads to an inadequat production of healthy blood cells. Affected individuals usually develop anemia due to a shortage of red blood cells. They may feel tired, breathless, and appear pale. A shortage of white blood cells may lead to frequent infections, while a shortage of platelets may lead to easy bruising and bleeding. Myelodysplastic syndromes are not contagious as they derive from abnormalities in the person's own cells, usually related to age or previous treatment with chemotherapy or radiation. Without intervention, these syndromes can progress to leukemia, a type of blood cancer. In terms of the affected system, these conditions primarily target the hematopoietic (blood-making) system within the bone marrow.