<p>The disclosed invention is directed to methods and compounds useful in treating a myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) using p38 MAP kinase inhibitors either alone or in combination with other chemotherapeutic compounds. A role for p38 kinase inhibition as a treatment modality for combating MDS is discussed herein. Relating to a preferred embodiment, compounds of the invention have been found to inhibit p38 kinase, the a-isoform in particular, and are useful in treating MDS.</p>