Refractory anemia with excess blasts in transformation (RAEB-T) is a type of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) that is characterized by anemia, an excess of blasts (immature white blood cells) in the bone marrow, and a lack of response to treatment. It is a more advanced form of MDS, and is considered a pre-leukemic condition. People with RAEB-T may experience fatigue, shortness of breath, and an increased risk of infection. Treatment options include chemotherapy, stem cell transplant, and supportive care.

The symptoms of Refractory Anemia with Excess Blasts in Transformation (RAEB-T) vary depending on the individual, but may include:

-Fatigue

-Shortness of breath

-Weakness

-Weight loss

-Fever

-Night sweats

-Loss of appetite

-Easy bruising or bleeding

-Enlarged lymph nodes

-Enlarged liver or spleen

-Pale skin

-Frequent infections

-Abnormal bleeding from the gums or nose

-Abnormal bleeding from the skin or mucous membranes

-Abnormal bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract

-Abnormal bleeding from the urinary tract

The most common cause of refractory anemia with excess blasts in transformation (RAEB-T) is a type of blood cancer called acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Other causes of RAEB-T include myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), and certain inherited bone marrow failure syndromes. In some cases, the cause of RAEB-T is unknown.

1. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is the most common treatment for refractory anemia with excess blasts in transformation. This type of treatment uses drugs to kill cancer cells.

2. Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy is a type of treatment that uses drugs to target specific molecules involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells.

3. Bone Marrow Transplant: A bone marrow transplant is a procedure in which healthy bone marrow cells are transplanted into the body to replace damaged or diseased bone marrow.

4. Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is a type of treatment that uses the body’s own immune system to fight cancer.

5. Clinical Trials: Clinical trials are research studies that test new treatments for refractory anemia with excess blasts in transformation.

1. Advanced age
2. Previous exposure to chemotherapy or radiation
3. Previous history of myelodysplastic syndrome
4. Genetic mutations in the TP53 gene
5. Family history of myelodysplastic syndrome or acute myeloid leukemia
6. Exposure to certain environmental toxins or chemicals
7. Certain viral infections, such as human T-cell leukemia virus-1 (HTLV-1)

Yes, there are treatments available for refractory anemia with excess blasts in transformation. Treatment options may include chemotherapy, stem cell transplantation, and targeted therapies. Your doctor will be able to discuss the best treatment option for you based on your individual situation.