The first novel influenza A (H1N1) fatality despite antiviral treatment and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in Hong Kong.
We report the first fatality caused by novel influenza A (H1N1) infection despite having the diagnosis confirmed and being given antiviral treatment after hospitalisation. This patient was also the first with influenza A (H1N1) to be supported with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in Hong Kong. Although extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is an effective means of supporting patients with refractory hypoxaemia on high mechanical ventilatory support, it is labour-intensive and technically demanding. We also discuss the challenges faced when managing this case.
Liong
T
T
Intensive Care Unit, United Christian Hospital, Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
Lee
K L
KL
Poon
Y S
YS
Lam
S Y
SY
Chan
C P
CP
Yue
C S
CS
Chu
C M
CM
Yuen
K Y
KY
Law
K I
KI
D000328:Adult; D000998:Antiviral Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D015199:Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation / Q000379:methods*; D017809:Fatal Outcome; D005260:Female; D006723:Hong Kong; D006801:Humans; D053118:Influenza A Virus, H1N1 Subtype / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D007251:Influenza, Human / Q000150:complications* / Q000628:therapy
D000998:Antiviral Agents