Which symptom is associated with acute tumor lysis syndrome?

Acute tumor lysis syndrome (ATLS) is characterized by a rapid release of intracellular contents into the bloodstream following the lysis of tumor cells, particularly after chemotherapy. This phenomenon leads to a distinct metabolic derangement, which includes hyperuricemia, hyperphosphatemia, hyperkalemia, and hypocalcemia.

Among the metabolic changes, hypocalcemia occurs because the increased phosphate levels from the lysed tumor cells can bind to calcium, forming insoluble calcium phosphate complexes, resulting in lower serum calcium levels. This can lead to symptoms such as muscle cramps, spasms, or even tetany in severe cases, making hypocalcemia a hallmark finding in this context.

Understanding the metabolic pathways involved in tumor lysis syndrome is essential, as recognizing hypocalcemia can help clinicians take preventive measures and mitigate potential complications associated with the syndrome.