Steroid-induced tumor lysis syndrome in solid tumors: A case report and review of the literature.
Ryan Conard, Charmi Trivedi, William Page
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
Case in brief
A 43-year-old male smoker presented with dyspnea, cough, and chest pain, leading to a diagnosis of extensive-stage small-cell carcinoma via endobronchial biopsy. After starting dexamethasone, he developed tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) the following day, meeting both laboratory and clinical Cairo-Bishop criteria. Despite treatment with IV hydration and rasburicase, his condition deteriorated, and he was transitioned to comfort care.
What made this case unusual
This case highlights a clear association between corticosteroid administration and the development of tumor lysis syndrome in a solid tumor, which is less commonly reported compared to hematologic malignancies.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for tumor lysis syndrome in patients with aggressive solid tumors, especially following corticosteroid treatment.
Why it matters
Recognizing TLS early in solid tumors can lead to timely management, which is crucial for improving patient outcomes.