Oncological Emergencies

Question 1

Febrile neutropaenia is an oncological emergency. What is it and how is it treated?

Answer 1

• Neutropaenic sepsis with/without fever > 38C, neutrophils < 1 x 109/L or chemo 10 days ago (nadir)
• Empirical antibiotics
  
  • IV pip/taz OR cefepime OR ceftazidime +/- vancomycin if severe sepsis

Question 2

Malignant hypercalcaemia is an oncological emergency. How is it treated?

Answer 2

• Hydration (Ca excretion)
• Corticosteroids (acute)
• Bisphosphonates
• Chemotherapy