Oncologic Metabolic Emergencies

Cancer and its therapies may lead to several metabolic emergencies that emergency providers (EPs) should be well-versed in identifying and managing. With prompt recognition and treatment initiation in the emergency department, lives can be saved and quality of life maintained. Most oncologic metabolic emergencies occur in advanced cancer states, but some follow initiation of treatment or may be the presenting syndrome that leads to the cancer diagnosis. This article reviews the 2 most emergent oncologic metabolic diagnoses: tumor lysis syndrome and hypercalcemia of malignancy. A discussion on associated cancers and conditions, pathogenesis and pathophysiology, and management recommendations is included.