MDS

Myelodysplasia, or myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), affects many workers who endured benzene exposures.  

Mechanics, maritime workers, pipefitters, laborers and pressmen are just some of the types of workers who are at a higher risk of contracting MDS. MDS refers to a group of diseases that can occur when the blood cells in the bone marrow become abnormal and have problems making new blood cells. The bone marrow cells produce defective blood cells that tend to die earlier than normal cells. Additionally, the body also destroys these abnormal blood cells, leaving an individual without enough normal blood cells. A number of cell types can be affected, but the most common finding in myelodysplastic syndromes is a shortage of red blood cells (anemia).

Myelodysplasia is sometimes an indication that cancer is developing in the body. About 1 in 3 cases of MDS will develop into acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). As a result, MDS is often considered a pre-leukemia condition. Since it can easily go undiagnosed or be improperly diagnosed, the exact number of people diagnosed with myelodysplasia in the United States is unknown. Some estimates have put this number at about 10,000, while other estimate have been as high as 20,000.

What Causes MDS?

Chronic exposures to benzene-containing products like fuels, paints, degreasers and inks have been known to cause cell mutations that can result in leukemia and MDS. Herbicide and pesticide exposures may lead to MDS. Other MDS causes include exposure to cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation, and exposures to heavy metals, such as lead.

Symptoms of MDS

Myelodysplastic syndromes rarely cause symptoms in the early stages, however in time, myelodysplastic syndromes may cause fever, fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, loss of appetite, weight loss, or bone pain. Other signs may include unusual paleness (which occurs due to a low red blood cell count (anemia)), easy or unusual bruising or bleeding (which occurs due to a low blood platelet count (thrombocytopenia)), frequent or severe infections (which occurs due to a low white blood cell count (leukopenia), or pinpoint sized red spots just beneath the skin caused by bleeding (petechiae).

How is MDS Diagnosed?

Since myelodysplasia has a wide variety of symptoms, it must be differentiated from other diseases that cause low blood cell counts. Typically, unusually low cell counts, along with degenerating bone marrow is required for a diagnosis of myelodysplastic syndrome. A variety of tests are available, however, the most common include a complete blood count and chromosomal studies on bone marrow cells.

MDS Treatment Options

Treatment is based on the type of myelodysplastic syndrome. Often more than one type of treatment is used. One of the main goals of treatment is to increase blood counts and limit the side effects and symptoms while preventing the disease's progression into leukemia. In some cases, treatment might involve blood transfusion, bone marrow transplant, stem cell transplant, blood-cell growth factors, or chemotherapy.

Understanding Benzene Exposure and MDS

Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) is a serious blood disorder that can be caused by exposure to toxic chemicals, including benzene. Benzene is a widely used industrial chemical found in various workplace settings and products. Research has established a clear link between prolonged benzene exposure and the development of MDS.

Common Sources of Benzene Exposure

Workplace exposure to benzene commonly occurs in:

• Oil refineries and chemical plants
• Printing industry operations
• Rubber manufacturing facilities
• Paint and coating production
• Gasoline-related industries
• Laboratory settings

Legal Rights for Benzene-Related MDS

If you have been diagnosed with MDS and have a history of benzene exposure, you may have legal rights to compensation. Potential claims may include:

• Workers' compensation benefits
• Personal injury lawsuits against manufacturers or employers
• Disability benefits
• Healthcare cost reimbursement
• Lost wages and future earning capacity

Establishing a Legal Claim

To establish a successful legal claim, you typically need to demonstrate:

1. Evidence of benzene exposure through work history or environmental exposure
2. Medical documentation of MDS diagnosis
3. Documentation linking the exposure to the development of MDS
4. Evidence that the responsible parties knew or should have known about the risks

Statute of Limitations

Time limits for filing legal claims vary by state and circumstance and can vary from 1-6 years depending on a multitude of factors. It's crucial to consult with an benzene cancer lawyer as soon as possible after diagnosis to protect your legal rights.

Documentation to Gather

Important documents for your case may include:

• Medical records and diagnostic reports
• Employment history and workplace exposure records
• Safety data sheets and workplace chemical inventories
• Witness statements from co-workers or safety personnel
• Expert medical opinions linking exposure to MDS

If you or a loved one was exposed to benzene and develops myelodysplasia or myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), please contact Boling Law Firm at 1 (800) 799-7914, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.