Emergency care: the tumor lysis syndrome.

The Tumor Lysis Syndrome (TLS) is a constellation of metabolic disturbances due to the rapid tumoral cell destruction, either spontaneous or induced by cytoreduction therapy, which manifests as an acute, subacute or chronic renal insufficiency. Hyperuricemia is the hallmark of the TLS. The therapy consists in management of hydro-electrolytic and metabolic disturbances, treatment of hyperuricemia (Allopurinol and a new therapeutical agent, Uricase), hemodialysis. If promptly supported during the TLS, a number of these patients have an excellent probability of long-term remission.