Severe disseminated intravascular coagulation and tumor lysis syndrome in a patient with pancreatic adenocarcinoma treated with gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel: a case report

Abstract

Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) are oncologic emergencies caused by cytotoxic chemotherapy. We present a 74 year old male with metastatic pancreatic cancer to the liver who presented with TLS and DIC. Shortly after diagnosis, gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel were administered. Three days after starting chemotherapy the patient developed clinical TLS and DIC. Despite aggressive treatment with intravenous hydration, electrolyte monitoring, Radburicase and renal replacement therapy, he died 4 days after starting treatment. This patient with metastatic pancreatic cancer had TLS and DIC caused by administration of gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel chemotherapy.