Oncologic emergencies.

Abstract

Early recognition and prompt control are the two major factors in dealing with oncologic emergencies. The most common emergencies are tumor lysis syndrome, hypercalcemia, spinal cord compression, and superior vena cava syndrome. Emergencies in cancer can occur at any stage of the disease process or its treatment. It is very important that caregivers are able to recognize and manage these emergencies; serious complications can arise if they are not treated promptly.