Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP) Certification Practice Test

What are the two types of Tumor Lysis Syndrome (TLS)?

1. Chronic and Acute

2. Spontaneous and Inherited

3. Spontaneous and Acute

4. Immediate and Delayed

The correct answer is: Spontaneous and Acute

Tumor Lysis Syndrome (TLS) is characterized by the rapid breakdown of tumor cells, leading to the release of intracellular contents into the bloodstream, which can cause significant metabolic disturbances. The two recognized types of TLS are spontaneous and acute. Spontaneous TLS often occurs without the initiation of treatment, typically seen in patients with high tumor burden or aggressive malignancies. This type of TLS can manifest during initial blood draws or as the tumor cells begin to break down naturally due to their rapid proliferation. Acute TLS, on the other hand, typically arises shortly after treatment initiation, such as chemotherapy, and is associated with the rapid killing of tumor cells. This situation has a high risk of metabolic abnormalities including hyperuricemia, hyperkalemia, hyperphosphatemia, and hypocalcemia, which may require immediate medical intervention to manage complications. Recognizing these two types helps healthcare providers anticipate and manage TLS effectively, ensuring better outcomes for patients undergoing cancer treatment.