Towards an ethical protocol for tumor lysis syndrome: first steps towards its creation
Keywords:
tumor lysis syndrome; ethical dilemmas; informed consent; palliative careAbstract
Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) presents a critical paradox in oncology, transforming therapeutic efficacy into an iatrogenic metabolic emergency. Despite established diagnostic criteria, a significant gap exists in ethical guidelines for its management. Evidence reveals dilemmas including the unpredictability of TLS in solid tumors and with novel therapies, the need for realistic informed consent, the early integration of palliative care to avoid therapeutic obstinacy, and complications arising from prophylaxis itself. A structured ethical framework is required to complement the clinical approach and ensure humanized decision-making.
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