Tumour lysis syndrome

Defined as a combination of metabolic and electrolyte abnormalities occurring spontaneously or following initiation of cytotoxic treatment in patients with cancer. It is characterised by excessive cell lysis.

Most commonly associated with highly proliferative, bulky, chemosensitive malignancies, such as lymphomas and leukaemias.

Laboratory tumour lysis syndrome (TLS) is characterised by a combination of any 2 of hyperuricaemia, hyperphosphataemia, hyperkalaemia, or hypocalcaemia. Clinical TLS is defined as laboratory TLS with either an increased serum creatinine, cardiac arrhythmia, seizure activity, or sudden death.

Identification of high-risk patients and appropriate preventive management significantly reduces the risk of developing the syndrome. Vigorous hydration in combination with hypouricaemic agents constitutes the cornerstone of both prevention and treatment.

Tumour lysis syndrome (TLS) is defined as a combination of metabolic and electrolyte abnormalities that occurs in patients with cancer, usually after the initiation of cytotoxic treatment but also spontaneously. It is characterised by excessive cell lysis resulting in hyperuricaemia, hyperphosphataemia, hyperkalaemia, and hypocalcaemia. TLS is most common with lymphomas and leukaemias, in particular Burkitt's lymphoma and acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. It is also associated with other haematological malignancies and solid tumours.