Heart, lung, and endocrine complications of solid tumors.

Many cancers and complications of cancer treatment may cause major critical care problems. Cardiopulmonary complications include pericardial effusion, cardiac tamponade, superior vena cava syndrome, pleural effusion, pulmonary embolism, radiation pneumonitis, and toxicities related to chemotherapy. Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH), Cushing's disease, and hypercalcemia are common endocrine complications associated with solid tumors. Astute nursing assessment plays an important role in preventing or reducing morbidity related to these complications.