Management of Hantavirus Cardiopulmonary Syndrome in Critical Care Transport: A Review

In 1993, the Southwest found itself staring down a disease then known as "unexplained adult respiratory syndrome." During the outbreak, 12 of 23 known patients died. What we now recognize as hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome still remains a rare and deadly disease. Although no cure exists, modern supportive techniques such as extracorporeal membrane oxygenation have increased survival among these patients. Early diagnosis has become the primary factor in patient survival. The initial presentation of hantavirus is similar to acute respiratory distress syndrome, necessitating a high index of suspicion to afford the patient the best chance of survival. Diagnosis is further complicated by prolonged and nonspecific incubation periods making it difficult to pinpoint an exposure. Familiarizing oneself with common clinical presentations, diagnostic strategies, and testing is the best way to increase patient survival. Because hantavirus has a predilection for rural areas, transport to a tertiary facility is paramount to provide the resources necessary to care for these complex patients. Rapid sequence intubation, although common in airway-compromised patients, could prove fatal in the setting of the severe hemodynamic instability found in hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome. Anticipation of significant pressor use and fluid administration could likely mean the difference in patient mortality during transport.