Definition of Chromosome 5q- syndrome

Chromosome 5q- syndrome: A blood disorder due to the loss of part of the long (q) arm of chromosome 5 in myeloid (bone marrow) cells, causing refractory (treatment-resistant) anemia, and myelodysplastic syndrome that is generally associated with a good prognosis but on occasion may lead to acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The immune modulating lenalidomide (Revlimid) is beneficial in male patients with the 5Q- syndrome and may reduce transfusion needs. It does lower white blood cells and platelet counts and is not a curative option.