What can be a metabolic consequence of tumor lysis syndrome?

Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when tumor cells rapidly break down and release their intracellular contents into the bloodstream, typically after the initiation of cancer treatment. One significant metabolic consequence of this syndrome is elevated potassium levels, known as hyperkalemia.

As tumor cells lyse, they release potassium, phosphate, and nucleic acids into the circulation. The sudden increase in potassium can lead to serious complications, such as cardiac arrhythmias, which are a direct result of the high concentration of potassium in the blood. Thus, recognizing and managing elevated potassium levels is crucial in instances of tumor lysis syndrome to prevent severe cardiac complications and maintain electrolyte balance in the patient.

Other metabolic changes associated with TLS may include hyperuricemia due to the breakdown of purines and hypocalcemia due to the precipitation of calcium phosphate. However, the prominence of elevated potassium levels as a direct consequence makes this the most relevant option regarding tumor lysis syndrome.