The use of high-frequency oscillatory ventilation in a patient with H1N1 pneumonia

Abstract

A 32-year-old multigravida was admitted at 33.9 weeks with respiratory distress. Community-acquired pneumonia was suspected and antimicrobial treatment initiated with ceftriaxone sodium and azithromycin. However, despite these therapies her respiratory status deteriorated. She was subsequently diagnosed with Swine-origin Influenza A (H1N1) Virus pneumonia and treated with oseltamivir. After failing conventional ventilation, high-frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV) was utilized. In pregnant patients who fail to respond to conventional ventilation techniques, HFOV should be considered.

Keywords:

• H1N1
• pregnancy
• influenza
• oscillatory ventilation