Rasburicase: an innovative new treatment for hyperuricemia associated with tumor lysis syndrome.

Abstract

Rasburicase is a new treatment for hyperuricemia, a metabolic manifestation of tumor lysis syndrome (TLS). Rasburicase has a unique mechanism of action that allows uric acid byproducts to be easily excreted in the urine. Clinical trials have shown that rasburicase has a rapid onset of action that allows chemotherapy to be delivered on time and prevents hyperuricemia-related complications, including renal compromise. The drug has been used successfully in adults and children. The main side effect of rasburicase is the potential for a hypersensitivity reaction. The drug is contraindicated in patients with glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency because this can precipitate hemolytic anemia. The drug has not been studied in patients with a history of allergies or asthma. Oncology nurses play a major role in the assessment and management of TLS-related complications. They must assess patients for G6PD deficiency and signs and symptoms of hypersensitivity reaction before and during chemotherapy or other therapeutic interventions. Nurses play a direct role in preventing complications related to TLS and contributing to the quality of life in this patient population.

• Authors: Jeannine M Brant
• Journal: Clinical journal of oncology nursing (Clin J Oncol Nurs) 2002 Jan-Feb Vol. 6 Issue 1 Pg. 12-6 ISSN: 1092-1095 [Print] United States
• PMID: 11842483 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Drugs, Investigational
• Uric Acid
• Urate Oxidase

Topics

• Child
• Child, Preschool
• Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
• Drug Administration Schedule
• Drugs, Investigational
• Female
• Hematologic Neoplasms (complications, drug therapy, nursing)
• Humans
• Male
• Prognosis
• Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
• Treatment Outcome
• Tumor Lysis Syndrome (complications, drug therapy, nursing)
• Urate Oxidase (administration & dosage)
• Uric Acid (blood)