Oncological Emergencies Flashcards
1
Q
What are the causes of hypercalcemia in patients with cancer?
A
Hypercalcemia is often due to secretion of Parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTH-rP).
It can also be due to lytic bone metastases or the activation of osteoclasts, as seen in breast cancer and myeloma respectively.
2
Q
Hypercalcaemia in malignancy is most common in which cancer types?
A
Breast cancer, lung cancer and multiple myeloma.
3
Q
What is the immediate management of Hypercalcaemia?
A
Fluids, aiming for 3-6L of 0.9% NaCl over 24 hours. In severe cases, IV bisphosphonates can be given - reduce bone resorption.
