The Role of Red Blood Cell Transfusions in Low-risk MDS

Red blood cell (RBC) transfusions play an important role in managing symptomatic anemia in patients with low-risk MDS, helping improve energy levels, daily functioning, and overall quality of life. However, transfusions are generally not considered a sustainable long-term strategy because they do not address the underlying cause of ineffective hematopoiesis and often lead to increasing transfusion dependence over time. While the immediate benefit is rapid symptom relief, long-term transfusions carry notable limitations, including iron overload, the need for frequent clinic visits, and risks such as alloimmunization or transfusion reactions. These challenges highlight the importance of exploring disease-modifying or erythropoiesis-stimulating treatments when appropriate. Ultimately, transfusions remain a valuable supportive measure, but their limitations reinforce the need for individualized, proactive management strategies in low-risk MDS.