Outcomes of Venovenous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation for Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia: A Multicenter Retrospective Case Series.

Abstract

Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP) is a life-threatening opportunistic infection increasingly recognized among non-HIV immunocompromised patients. In severe cases progressing to acute respiratory distress syndrome, venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO) may serve as a rescue therapy. We conducted a retrospective multicenter review of 10 adult patients with proven or probable PCP who received VV-ECMO between 2017 and 2024. Seven of 10 patients survived to discharge, including all three HIV-positive patients and 4 of 7 non-HIV immunocompromised patients. The mean Respiratory ECMO Survival Prediction Score was -1.5, corresponding to a predicted survival of 33-57%. Multiorgan dysfunction was common, including renal failure requiring dialysis in 6 of 10 patients, need for neuromuscular blockade in 8 of 10, and pulmonary vasodilator use in 8 of 10. Despite high acuity and prolonged ECMO support, outcomes were favorable. These findings suggest that VV-ECMO may be a viable salvage therapy for select patients with severe PCP, including those without HIV.