Tumor lysis syndrome – An overview and current perspective

Abstract

Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) is an oncological emergency where in spontaneous or treatment-induced cell death leads to a constellation of metabolic abnormalities that can result in potentially life threatening complications. It is characterized by hyperkalemia, hyperuricemia, hyperphosphatemia and hypocalcemia. Etiopathogenesis is related to spontaneous cell death of rapidly growing tumor or more commonly to administration of cytotoxic chemotherapy in patients with hematologic malignancies and less so with solid malignancies. The precise incidence of TLS is not known, and neither racial nor gender predilection exists. Approximately 18% of the patients who develop TLS die of its complications [1]. The cornerstone of the management of TLS includes knowledge of its causes, recognition of high-risk patients, vigilant monitoring and prompt initiation of appropriate preventive and therapeutic measures when indicated.