Aim of the research

To provide an up-to-date review of the literature on the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of common oncologic emergencies encountered in clinical practice.

Material and methods

We conducted a systematic computerised search in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase.

Results

We reviewed relevant medical literature. Most common complications requiring emergency management are addressed in this review, specifically: tumour lysis syndrome, seizures and status epilepticus, pulmonary embolism, leukostasis, thrombotic microangiopathy, febrile neutropaenia, disseminated intravascular coagulation, massive haemoptysis, diffuse alveolar haemorrhage, stem cell transplant-related complications, surgically related complications of malignancy, metastatic spinal cord metastasis, and superior vena cava syndrome.

Conclusions

Oncologic emergencies and related complications demand increased attention from attending physicians, oncologists, and intensivists. Knowledge of oncologic emergencies encountered in clinical practice expedites the ability of physicians to manage them properly. The identification and institution of proper management can improve outcomes in these patients.