What is tumor lysis syndrome (TLS)?
Tumor lysis syndrome is a condition in which widespread necrosis of tumor cells releases toxic amounts of intracellular contents into the circulation, resulting in acute hyperuricemia, hyperkalemia, hyperphosphatemia, hypocalcemia, and acute kidney injury (AKI).
3 Interesting Facts of Tumor lysis syndrome
1. Tumor lysis syndrome typically occurs following chemotherapy in the treatment of acute hematologic malignancies with a large tumor burden.
2. Tumor lysis syndrome can cause profound electrolyte abnormalities (hyperkalemia, hyperphosphatemia, hypocalcemia, and hyperuricemia) as a result of the release of intracellular constituents.
3. Rasburicase, a recombinant uric oxidase, rapidly lowers uric acid levels; although expensive, it is commonly used in the prevention of acute kidney injury associated with tumor lysis syndrome.
