Via practica 6/2025
Selected oncological emergencies review
Oncological emergencies may be the first manifestation of cancer, but they can also arise at any time during anticancer treatment and even when the patient is not undergoing anticancer treatment. Most oncological emergencies can be classified as metabolic, hematological, structural, or treatment-related clinical situations that threaten the patient’s life and therefore require immediate treatment. Metabolic emergencies include tumor lysis syndrome, malignant hypercalcemia, and syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion. Febrile neutropenia and hyperviscosity syndrome are examples of hematological emergencies. Structural life-threatening acute conditions are caused by direct pressure of tumor masses on non-tumor structures. The most common include superior vena cava syndrome, spinal cord compression syndrome, and intracranial hypertension. It should also be borne in mind that some oncological emergencies develop over months, while others manifest within hours and have the potential to leave devastating consequences, such as paralysis and death. Early diagnosis and the correct treatment approach play a crucial role in the prognosis of patients with oncological emergencies.
Keywords: oncologic emergencies, acute oncologic conditions, primary healthcare, general practice
