Molecular Adsorbent Recirculating System Support Followed by Liver Transplantation for Multiorgan Failure From Heatstroke

Abstract

Background: Exertional heatstroke is an extremely rare cause of fulminant hepatic failure. Maximal supportive care has failed to provide adequate survival in earlier studies. This is particularly true in cases accompanied by multiorgan failure.

Methods and materials: Our prospectively collected transplant database was retrospectively reviewed to identify patients undergoing liver transplantation for heatstroke between January 1, 2012, and December 31, 2016. We report 3 consecutive cases of male patients with fulminant hepatic failure from exertional heatstroke.

Results: All patients developed multiorgan failure and required intubation, vasopressor support, and renal replacement therapy. All patients were listed urgently for liver transplantation and were supported with the molecular adsorbent recirculating system while awaiting transplantation. All patients underwent liver transplantation alone and are alive and well, with recovered renal function, normal liver allograft function, and no chronic sequelae of their multiorgan failure at more than one year.

Conclusion: Extreme heatstroke leading to whole-body organ dysfunction and fulminant liver failure is a complex entity that may benefit from therapy using the Molecular Adsorbent Recirculating System while waiting for liver transplantation as a component of a multidisciplinary, multiorgan system approach.