Oncologic Emergencies

Question 1

What is the treatment for SVC syndrome due to malignancy?

Answer 1

Usually chemo and radiation therapy with a response seen within 2 weeks. If partial latency is obtained, anticoagulation is appropriate.

Question 2

What are common symptoms of increased intracranial pressure?

Answer 2

Headache, vomiting, AMS, and focal neurologic deficits.

Question 3

What are typical doses of steroids for increased ICP?

Answer 3

Usually dexamethasone 8-10mg q6hours. Higher doses have no additional benefit.

Question 4

Which cancer most typically cause spinal cord compression?

Answer 4

Breast, lung, and prostate cancer.

Question 5

What are the common symptoms of spinal cord compression?

Answer 5

Pain usually comes first. Feeling of heaviness in the legs, proximal weakness. Leg weakness, bowel and bladder dysfunction usually come later

Question 6

What is the treatment of spinal cord compression?

Answer 6

Dexamethasone 20mg x 1 with maintenance dose. Neurosurgery consultation. Radiation and chemo often used for sensitive malignancies.

Question 7

What cancer typically causes malignant pleural effusions?

Answer 7

Breast, lung, lymphoma.