Abstract
Background The aim of this study is to present the success of a multidisciplinary approach in
a patient with a rare triad of disease.
Case Description A 33-year-old patient with newly diagnosed human immunodeficiency virus infection
presented with miliary tuberculosis, consecutive adult respiratory distress syndrome,
and multiple-organ failure. An interdisciplinary, time-limited approach combining
extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, intensive care therapy, hemodiafiltration, tuberculostatic
therapy, steroids, and antiretroviral therapy led to survival despite a low probability
at presentation.
Conclusion Even though the use of such extensive and expensive treatment can be questioned,
this example encourages an aggressive approach in a young patient, even in situations
of multiple diagnosis of individually limited prognosis.
Keywords
adult respiratory distress syndrome - human immunodeficiency virus - miliary tuberculosis
- extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
