Type B lactic acidosis: a rare oncological emergency.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Metabolic Disorders
• Acidosis

Background:

• Type B lactic acidosis is a rare metabolic complication associated with malignancies, particularly hematological cancers.
• Limited prospective trials necessitate reliance on case reports for treatment strategies.
• Early recognition and prompt intervention are critical due to the generally poor prognosis.

Observation:

• This report details the first documented instance of type B lactic acidosis occurring in a patient with metastatic melanoma.
• The case underscores the potential for this metabolic derangement in solid tumors, not just hematological malignancies.

Findings:

• Metastatic melanoma can present with type B lactic acidosis, a previously underreported association.
• The pathophysiology and treatment options for malignancy-associated lactic acidosis are reviewed based on existing literature.

Implications:

• This case expands the known spectrum of cancers associated with type B lactic acidosis.
• Highlights the importance of considering type B lactic acidosis in patients with advanced melanoma and metabolic disturbances.
• Suggests a need for further research into the pathophysiology and optimal management of type B lactic acidosis in solid tumors.