Tumor lysis syndrome is a condition that can occur during cancer treatment, in which tumor cells are destroyed very quickly, suddenly increasing the amount of certain substances in the blood. Among these substances are potassium, LDH, creatinine, phosphate and uric acid.
Although tumor lysis syndrome can occur in the treatment of any type of cancer, this situation is more frequently observed in the treatment of lymphomas and other hematologic malignancies. Patients with high levels of LDH before the start of treatment appear to be at greater risk of developing this complication.
Tumor lysis syndrome can impair the functioning of the kidneys (kidney failure) and cause cardiac, neurological, pulmonary and gastrointestinal changes. Treatment consists of intravenous hydration and correction of blood levels of the aforementioned substances.
