Premature infant with sudden respiratory distress

Here we describe a case of a premature neonate who showed initial improvement after being on invasive ventilation. She was gradually weaned to room air and was started on a feeding protocol for preterm infants together with total parenteral nutrition through a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) when she suddenly deteriorated and developed respiratory distress associated with signs of shock, requiring support from a high-setting mechanical ventilation as well as an inotropic support. A full sepsis work-up was ordered and she was started on antibiotics. The diagnosis was confirmed on chest X-ray and ultrasound, which showed automigration and displacement of the PICC line from its initial site on the left side to the right lung base, causing significant right-side pleural effusion which affected her haemodynamics. The PICC line was removed, and 30 hours later the pleural effusion completely resolved and the patient improved. She was discharged from hospital without any concerns with regard to growth and development during her regular follow-up.