Tumor lysis syndrome and metastatic melanoma

Med Oncol. 2016 Dec;33(12):134. doi: 10.1007/s12032-016-0854-5. Epub 2016 Nov 2.

Abstract

Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) is a potential emergent complication of oncologic treatment. TLS is commonly reported in hematological malignancies with rapid cell turnover rates, but is relatively rare in solid tumors. TLS is most frequently a result of cancer treatment in combination with a large tumor burden, but has occasionally been reported to occur spontaneously, especially in cases of advanced or metastatic disease. In this article, we describe the case of a patient with newly diagnosed metastatic melanoma that developed TLS two days after initiation of corticosteroids. In addition, we present a brief literature review of melanoma-associated TLS and review the etiology, diagnosis, and management of TLS.

Keywords: Corticosteroids; Melanoma; Oncologic emergency; Tumor lysis syndrome.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Letter

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / adverse effects
  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Melanoma / drug therapy*
  • Melanoma / pathology*
  • Middle Aged
  • Tumor Lysis Syndrome / etiology*
  • Tumor Lysis Syndrome / pathology

Substances

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones