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Updated: Jun 10, 2026
08:59
Neutrophil Extracellular Traps Generated by Low Density Neutrophils Obtained from Peritoneal Lavage Fluid Mediate Tumor Cell Growth and Attachment
Published on: August 3, 2018
Tumour lysis syndrome: an unusual presentation
E A Chubb1, D Maloney, E Farley-Hills
1Department of Anaesthetics and Intensive Care Medicine, University Hospital of Wales, Heath Park, Cardiff, UK.
Anaesthesia
|July 22, 2010
Summary
A rare case of spontaneous tumor lysis syndrome in undiagnosed Burkitt's lymphoma was identified postoperatively. White, uric acid-rich urine in the ICU led to the prompt diagnosis, highlighting early recognition challenges.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Nephrology
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Spontaneous tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) is a rare oncological emergency.
- TLS can occur in patients with high-grade lymphomas, including Burkitt's lymphoma.
- Postoperative TLS in undiagnosed malignancies presents diagnostic challenges.
Observation:
- A patient developed TLS postoperatively with no prior cancer diagnosis.
- The unusual presenting sign was white, emulsion-like urine in the catheter bag.
- Laboratory analysis revealed significant uric acid crystals in the urine.
Findings:
- The presence of uric acid crystals in urine was key to diagnosing TLS.
- Undiagnosed Burkitt's lymphoma was identified as the underlying cause of TLS.
- Laparotomy and tumor handling were suspected triggers for TLS.
Implications:
- Early recognition of TLS is critical to prevent fatal complications like cardiac dysfunction and multi-organ failure.
- Vigilance by anesthesiologists and intensivists is essential for identifying TLS in undiagnosed cases.
- This case underscores the importance of monitoring urine characteristics in critically ill patients.
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