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High RDW is used to identify possible vitamin deficiencies such as b12 or folate most commonly. It can also indicate hemolytic (destruction of cells) anemia, which is often present in MDS and other chronic diseases). I am going off of 25 year old memory, but I also believe that when marrow is under stress, it releases precursor red blood cells which are larger than fully mature cells, which can elevate RDW.
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MDS RCMD w/grade 2-3 fibrosis. Allo-MUD Feb 26, 2014. Relapsed August 2014. Free and clear of MDS since November 2014 after treatment with Vidaza and Rituxan. Experiencing autoimmune attack on CNS thought to be GVHD, some gut, skin and ocular cGVHD. Neuropathy over 80% of body.
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