Growth factors for myelodysplastic syndrome

Growth factors are substances that speed up the process of making blood cells in the bone marrow. The body itself makes growth factors, but they can also be made in the lab. They can then be given to patients in large doses to help their bodies make more blood cells. Patients usually get the growth factors as shots (injections) under the skin.

A shortage of blood cells causes most of the symptoms in people with MDS, so giving growth factors can help some patients. There are different growth factors that might be used, depending on the patient's situation.