Tumor Lysis Syndrome

Hospital Physician September 2008 25 T umor lysis syndrome (TLS) is a collection of metabolic abnormalities that occur as a result of the release of intracellular contents following lysis of malignant cells, typically after initiation of chemotherapy. The features of TLS include hyperphosphatemia, hyperuricemia, hypocalcemia, hyperkalemia, and acute kidney injury. These features are observed when the accumulation of cell degradation byproducts exceeds the clearance ability of the kidneys, resulting in renal damage and further worsening of the aforementioned metabolic disturbances. The incidence of TLS can range from 3% to 22% depending on the patient’s risk factors, type of malignancy, and the type of chemotherapeutic agents used.1,2 TLS is considered an oncologic emergency given the high incidence of renal failure (25%–38%) and death (5%–14%) associated with its occurrence.3–5 This article reviews the diagnosis and treatment of TLS as well as preventive measures that should be taken in at-risk patients undergoing chemotherapy.