Tumor lysis syndrome after combination chemotherapy for ovarian cancer

Tumor lysis syndrome is infrequently encountered following the treatment of solid tumors. A 47-year-old woman developed this syndrome after receiving combination chemotherapy for ovarian cancer. The levels of serum lactate dehydrogenase, uric acid, phosphate, and creatinine increased, whereas the serum calcium level decreased. These metabolic abnormalities were treated successfully using a combination of vigorous intravenous hydration, parenteral bicarbonate to keep urinary pH > 7, furosemide, and allopurinol. This unusual and easily treatable complication should be anticipated in patients with rapidly growing ovarian cancer undergoing aggressive treatment.