Oncologic Emergencies Flashcards

The MASCC score is used to stratify risk in which oncologic condition?

Answer: Febrile neutropenia

The Multinational Association for Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC) score identifies low-risk febrile neutropenia patients who may be managed with oral antibiotics outpatient.

What is the preferred initial antibiotic for low-risk febrile neutropenia being managed outpatient?

Answer: Ciprofloxacin plus amoxicillin-clavulanate

Oral ciprofloxacin combined with amoxicillin-clavulanate is the IDSA-recommended outpatient regimen for low-risk febrile neutropenia.

Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) in cancer is best managed initially with:

Answer: Fluid restriction to 800–1000 mL/day

Mild to moderate SIADH is first managed with fluid restriction; hypertonic saline is reserved for severe symptomatic hyponatremia.

A patient with AML develops bleeding gums, petechiae, prolonged PT/PTT, low fibrinogen, and elevated D-dimer. Which treatment is specific to this etiology?

Answer: All-trans retinoic acid (ATRA)

ATRA induces differentiation of promyelocytes in APL-associated DIC, addressing the underlying cause rather than just replacing clotting factors.

Which imaging finding on MRI spine best confirms malignant spinal cord compression requiring urgent treatment?

Answer: Epidural tumor impinging on the thecal sac

Epidural tumor directly impinging on the thecal sac confirms cord compression and necessitates urgent corticosteroids and radiation or surgery.

Which intervention is contraindicated in the initial management of SVC syndrome with thrombosis?

Answer: Immediate surgical resection as first-line therapy

Immediate surgery is not first-line for SVC syndrome with thrombosis; less invasive options such as anticoagulation, thrombolysis, and stenting are preferred.