This book deals with the rapid progress in the area of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). MDS are a group of age-associated heterogeneous malignant bone marrow stem cell disorders. MDS are characterized by ineffective hematopoiesis, which leads to refractory cytopenias and to clonal instability. Patients with MDS have myeloid dysplasia, intramedullary apoptosis and an increased risk of transformation to acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The use of next generation sequencing has allowed for the identification of molecular mutations in several genes in about 90% of MDS patients. Several mutations will likely be incorporated into future prognostic scoring systems for MDS. About 50% of MDS cases are characterized by the presence of cytogenetic abnormalities. The correct morphological and cytogenetic analysis interpretation plays an important role in diagnosis and prognosis of these disorders. Cell death and an inflammatory gene signature are associated with MDS. Better understanding of the genetic and molecular mechanisms of MDS pathogenesis provides an opportunity for new treatment strategies to be developed. Promising novel therapies targeting pathophysiological mechanisms of MDS are being studied but the drugs currently used in MDS therapy remain limited. The only curative therapy for MDS is allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Recent advances in strategies to minimize transplant-related toxicity make this treatment possible for more MDS patients who are sufficiently fit.

Cancer is clearly an age-related disease. Recent research in both aging and cancer has demonstrated the complex interaction between the two phenomena. This affects a wide spectrum of research and practice, anywhere from basic research to health care organization. Core examples of these close associations are addressed in this book. Starting with basic research, the first chapters cover cancer development, mTOR inhibition, senescent cells altering the tumor microenvironment, and immune senescence affecting cancer vaccine response. Taking into account the multidisciplinarity of geriatric oncology, several chapters focus on geriatric and oncologic aspects in patient assessment, treatment options, nursing and exercise programs. The book is rounded off by a discussion on the impact of the metabolic syndrome illustrating the interactions between comorbidity and cancer and a chapter on frailty.This book provides the reader with insights that will hopefully foster his or her reflection in their own research and practice to further the development of this most exciting field. Given the aging of the population worldwide and the high prevalence of cancer, it is essential reading not only for oncologists and geriatricians but for all health practitioners.

This book provides a concise update on current understanding of the biology of acute and chronic leukemias and other bone marrow neoplasms, including myelodysplastic and myeloproliferative disorders, and explores new and emerging treatments. There is a particular focus on the molecular abnormalities that are drivers of leukemia and on their detection by modern molecular techniques. Knowledge of the ways in which genomic and metabolic abnormalities in the hematologic neoplasms affect prognosis and treatment decision making is reviewed. Detailed attention is devoted to targeted therapies, including novel drugs, and to potential targets for future drug development. In addition, readers find in-depth discussion of cellular and antibody-based immunotherapies as well as the role of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in the treatment of leukemias and bone marrow malignancies. The book is of special interest for hematologists, oncologists, and cancer researchers; it is also of value for hematology trainees and medical students.

Newly revised and updated, 100 Questions & Answers About Myelodysplastic Syndromes provides authoritative and practical answers to the most common questions asked by patients and their loved ones. What is myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS)? What causes MDS? Is MDS hereditary, and will I give it to my children? Written by experts in the field, and with commentary from actual patients, this guide is the only text available to provide both the doctor's and patient's views.100 Questions & Answers About Myelodysplastic Syndromes is an invaluable resource for anyone struggling with the medical, physical, and emotional turmoil of this disease.

In this compilation, the authors review the biological aspects of myelodysplastic syndrome disease, diagnosis, and treatment, as well as innovations involving genetics and new treatment perspectives.Myelodysplastic syndromes are a heterogeneous group of clonal haematopoietic stem cells disorders characterized by dysplasia, as well as peripheral blood cytopenias with a hypercellular marrow and ineffective hematopoiesis.Myelodysplastic syndromes are frequently associated with acute and chronic inflammation, and autoimmune disorders such as: rheumatoid arthritis, bowel disease, diverse types of vasculitis, autoimmune anemias, several rheumatic and skin disorders, and certain thyroid disorders.Spliceosome mutations are the most frequent mutations found in blood and bone marrow cells of myelodysplastic syndromes patients. As such, the authors explore the four predominant splicing factor genes: SF3B1, SFRS2, U2AF1, ZRSR2.Subsequently, this collection discusses the CSNK1A1 gene in the context of myelodysplastic syndromes. It is located at 5q32 within the deleted region, which encodes for casein kinase 1α (CK1α). CK1α is a component of a multiprotein β-catenin destruction complex that regulates Wnt/β-catenin and p53 pathways.The concluding study focuses on the mutations in epigenetic modifiers occur which myelodysplastic syndromes and drive this disease, such as: DNA methylation, histone acetylation, and RNA interference that alters gene expression.

This publication extends the now classic system of human cytogenetic nomenclature prepared by an expert committee and published in collaboration with Cytogenetic and Genome Research' since 1963. Revised and finalized by the ISCN Committee and its advisors at a meeting in Seattle, Wash., in April 2012, the ISCN 2013 updates, revises and incorporates all previous human cytogenetic nomenclature recommendations into one systematically organized publication that supersedes all previous ISCN recommendations. There are several new features in ISCN 2013: an update of the microarray nomenclature, many more illustrative examples of uses of nomenclature in all sections some definitions including chromothripsis and duplication a new chapter for nomenclature that can be used for any region-specific assay. The ISCN 2013 is an indispensable reference volume for human cytogeneticists, technicians and students for the interpretation and communication of human cytogenetic nomenclature.

Since the original publication of Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation: Clinical Research and Practice, Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSC) has undergone several fast-paced changes. In this second edition, the editors have focused on topics relevant to evolving knowledge in the field in order to better guide clinicians in decision-making and management of their patients, as well as help lead laboratory investigators in new directions emanating from clinical observations. Some of the most respected clinicians and scientists in this discipline have responded to the recent advances in the field by providing state-of-the-art discussions addressing these topics in the second edition. The text covers the scope of human genomic variation, the methods of HLA typing and interpretation of high-resolution HLA results. Comprehensive and up-to-date, Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation: Clinical Research and Practice, Second Edition offers concise advice on today's best clinical practice and will be of significant benefit to all clinicians and researchers in allogeneic HSC transplantation.

This open access book provides a valuable resource for hospitals, institutions, and health authorities worldwide in their plans to set up and develop comprehensive cancer care centers. The development and implementation of a comprehensive cancer program allows for a systematic approach to evidence-based strategies of prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and palliation. Comprehensive cancer programs also provide a nexus for the running of clinical trials and implementation of novel cancer therapies with the overall aim of optimizing comprehensive and holistic care of cancer patients and providing them with the best opportunity to improve quality of life and overall survival. This book's self-contained chapter format aims to reinforce the critical importance of comprehensive cancer care centers while providing a practical guide for the essential components needed to achieve them, such as operational considerations, guidelines for best clinical inpatient and outpatient care, and research and quality management structures. Intended to be wide-ranging and applicable at a global level for both high and low income countries, this book is also instructive for regions with limited resources. The Comprehensive Cancer Center: Development, Integration, and Implementation is an essential resource for oncology physicians including hematologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgical oncologists, and oncology nurses as well as hospitals, health departments, university authorities, governments and legislators.

Now in its second edition, Modern Hematology: Biology and Clinical Management reflects the major advances in the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of blood disorders. It describes the latest clinical and scientific developments as well as details targeted and molecular therapies. The book brings together facts, concepts, and protocols important for the practice of hematology. In 23 chapters, all major blood diseases are covered, as well as rare diseases that are of scientific interest. As in the previous edition, each chapter is illustrated by tables, figures, and a selection of color plates.