Severe Hypocalcemia in a Patient with Recurrent Chondrosarcoma

Abstract

Hypocalcemia is relatively uncommon paraneoplastic syndrome. Only one case of hypocalcemia has been reported in a patient with chondrosarcoma. We herein report a case of a 32-year-old woman with metastatic chondrosarcoma with tetany. Her imaging findings revealed multiple calcific metastatic lesions in the lungs, pancreas, left atrium, and pulmonary vein. A laboratory examination showed hypocalcemia with no evidence of any other disease that could induce hypocalcemia. On the basis of the laboratory and clinical findings, we concluded the etiology of her severe hypocalcemia to be excessive calcium consumption by the tumor itself.

Outcomes Related to Electrolyte Imbalance in Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy; an Observational Study Focusing on Cancer Patients

“…However, hypokalemia; a decrease in the level of potassium, is more frequently presented as compared to hyperkalemia in cancer patients and is documented as the second most common electrolyte disorder [8]. Loss of potassium via the gastrointestinal tract and renal tubular damage caused secondary to the usage of antibiotics such as amphotericin B and amino glycoside and certain chemotherapeutic drugs such as cisplatinand ifosfamide also contribute to hypokalemia [9]. Usage of diuretics in cancer patients, especially in ones with calcium levels of 11mg/dl or above, plays a significant role in electrolyte imbalance causing hypokalemia and/or hyponatremia [10].…”

“…Usage of diuretics in cancer patients, especially in ones with calcium levels of 11mg/dl or above, plays a significant role in electrolyte imbalance causing hypokalemia and/or hyponatremia [10]. One of the case reports has also explored hypocalcaemia in patients suffering from cancer [11]. Calcium levels show a remarkable disturbance due to bone metastasis resulting in osteoblastic activity; however chemotherapy is usually a causative factor for hypomagnesaemia [12].…”