[Mseth]

Hi Teo,

I am sorry your mother has to have many BM tests, she is very brave.

In India, we also have similiar problem of no MDS specialists.

I am still far from being able to understand all the terminology related to MDS, but I do know that no blasts is good, and that hypocellular marrow (having lesser than normal cells) means that drugs like Cyclosporine may have positive result.
I recently read information on 'Aplastic Anemia', AA patients also have hypocellular marrow and many respond to a male hormone steroid - Danazol, which seems to have fewer side effects than the drugs for MDS. Danazol causes an increase in Hemoglobin, though it is not prescribed routinely. My mother has hypercellular (more cells) marrow, and Danazol is on my list of questions to ask her doctor in the next appointment.
The FISH and cytogenetic tests will give information is there is any chromosomal abnormality like del 5q, trisomy 8, del 20q etc. If del 5q is seen, it can be treated with Lenalidomide with good response.
Hope the EPO is continuing to work for your mother, this dose can be increased also as it is very low dose.
Hope your consultation with Doctor in Singapore goes well and you get the answers you are looking for.