Clearance of severely elevated plasma free hemoglobin with total plasma exchange in a pediatric ECMO patient

Abstract

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)-related hemolysis is common with reported incidence of 5%–18%. Plasma free hemoglobin (PFH) levels are used as a marker for hemolysis and elevated PFH is associated with acute kidney injury (AKI). Limited literature exists regarding treatment of severe hemolysis and clearance of PFH. We report 8-year-old male child on VA ECMO with severe hemolysis (PFH 895 mg/dL) and worsening AKI showing significant improvement in PFH after single volume exchange plasmapheresis with Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP) performed in tandem via ECMO circuit.