PNEUMONITIS OF UNCLEAR ETIOLOGY IN THE SURGICAL INTENSIVE-CARE UNIT LEADING TO THE DEMISE OF AN ELDERLY, IMMUNOCOMPROMISED WOMAN

Multiple system organ failure, likely an expression of a dysregulated immune system, is a common cause of death in the surgical intensive ca re unit (ICU). While investigational modalities of therapy are on the horizon, current treatment primarily consists of supportive care. The case of an elderly woman who was admitted to the surgical ICU after a celiac axis-superior mesenteric artery bypass, is presented. Her cours e was complicated by Influenza-B pneumonitis, multiple system organ fa ilure, and, ultimately, death. The course, pathophysiology, and therap eutic modalities involved in this syndrome are discussed. Additionally , the natural history of influenza infection is reviewed.