Study of Idarubicin, Cytarabine, and Nivolumab in Patients With High-Risk Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) and Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)

The goal of this clinical research study is to find the highest tolerable dose of nivolumab that can be give in combination with idarubicin and cytarabine in patients with MDS and AML. The safety and effectiveness of this drug combination will also be studied. This is an investigational study. Nivolumab is not FDA-approved or commercially available. Idarubicin is FDA-approved and commercially available for the treatment of patients with AML. Cytarabine is FDA approved and commercially available for treatment of patient with AML. The use of these drugs in combination is investigational. The study doctor can explain how the drugs are designed to work. Up to 75 patients will take part in this study. All will be enrolled at MD Anderson.