A case of influenza A infection followed by multiple organ failure (MOF)

We report a case of influenza A (H3N2) infection followed by multiple organ failure (MOF). The patient, a 16-year-old female who had been found to have an ECG abnormality, was admitted to our ICU for acute respiratory, cardiac and renal failure. On examination, it was established that the MOF resulted from rhabdomyolysis, viral pneumonia and viral myocarditis. She was immediately treated with artificial respiration, blood purification and catecholamines. In the treatment of MOF, continuous hemofiltration (CHF) was effective for the maintenance of proper water balance and electrolytes, and the removal of myoglobin. Although the fatal complications of influenza are very rare, early recognition and prompt treatment are important to prevent serious complications as shown in the case of a young adult with chronic heart disease.