Lupuslike Manifestations in Myelodysplastic Syndromes and Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia: A Distinct Clinical Entity

Introduction

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) are hematologic disorders characterized by dysfunctional blood cell production and variable risk of progression to acute leukemia. Beyond their well-known blood-related complications, these disorders increasingly have been associated with immune-mediated inflammatory conditions. Among these, lupuslike manifestations that resemble systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) are rare but clinically significant. These manifestations often present atypically, are refractory to standard lupus therapies, and pose diagnostic and therapeutic challenges to clinicians. Understanding the distinguishing features of lupuslike symptoms occurring in the context of MDS/CMML is crucial for timely diagnosis and effective management.

Scientific and Clinical Evidence: What the Data Tell Us