Extracorpeal Membrane Oxygenation in a Cystic Fibrosis Patient With Septic Shock Due to Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Abstract

This report presents the case of an 18-year-old male with cystic fibrosis (CF) who developed septic shock due to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bacteremia. He had a history of poor nutritional status and uncontrolled CF-related diabetes, both contributing to his rapidly declining condition. Despite aggressive treatment, including extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, his hospital course continued to deteriorate, including worsening respiratory failure and the need for lower extremity amputation secondary to ischemia. Ultimately, the decision to withdraw life support was made after it was determined the patient had unrecoverable respiratory failure. Our goal in presenting this case is to demonstrate the serious consequences of MRSA infection in patients with CF, who are often severely immunocompromised, and to emphasize the need for early detection and aggressive intervention among patients of this group.

Keywords: cystic fibrosis; cystic fibrosis related diabetes; ecmo; mrsa bacteremia; pulmonary; septic shock.

Figure 1. Chest X-ray on initial presentation showing bilateral opacities

Chest X-ray showed confluent perihilar opacities as well as bilateral mixed interstitial and airspace opacities, which are highly suspicious for an infectious process.