Tumor Lysis Syndrome
Also written as: TLS — Tumor Lysis Syndrome
An acute metabolic emergency caused by massive tumor cell death and release of intracellular contents into circulation.
Full Definition
Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) is a potentially life-threatening oncologic emergency that occurs when large numbers of tumor cells are rapidly destroyed, releasing their contents into the bloodstream faster than the body can eliminate them. This leads to hyperkalemia, hyperphosphatemia, hyperuricemia, and hypocalcemia, which can cause cardiac arrhythmias, seizures, and acute kidney injury. TLS most commonly occurs in patients with rapidly proliferating hematologic malignancies undergoing cytotoxic treatment, but can also occur spontaneously. Editors should note this term appears in oncology treatment protocols, emergency medicine guidelines, and patient safety documentation.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as TLS in clinical documentation; ensure proper capitalization in formal protocols.
In Context
- "The protocol required laboratory monitoring for tumor lysis syndrome in all patients with bulky lymphoma receiving high-dose chemotherapy." — Clinical trial protocol
- "Prophylactic measures against tumor lysis syndrome include aggressive hydration and allopurinol administration." — Treatment guidelines